Forum Discussion

path1's avatar
path1
Explorer
May 13, 2016

Battery covers do I need them?

TT battery's are behind the propane bottles tucked into their own little spot. Battery covers are a hassle to remove to check the water level. Batteries are in a location that protected from road debris. If the batteries explode I'm looking at the fiberglass cap and a little on the frame. Nothing that some water won't flush away. And thinking if I just do away with the battery covers the next bigger battery size might just fit. And sometimes I charge up batteries using the d/c side of generator (using a battery charger)posts would be so much more handy to get clamps on.


I'm thinking if I remove the covers I'll just put the plastic battery terminals covers that my car has that only covers the battery posts and cable connections.

Anything saying I have battery covers?

What am I missing?

Do battery covers do anything I'm not thinking about?
  • otrfun's avatar
    otrfun
    Explorer II
    May 14, 2016
    I assume the OP is inquiring about a battery box for a bumper-pull TT.

    What about a 5th wheel? I would assume a battery box (i.e., ventilation) is much more of an issue since the batteries are typically more enclosed? Fumes, explosion hazard?
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    May 14, 2016
    I wouid keep them covered.. Several reasons but you need not use the same cover you use now.. you can make one easier to remove.

    Asnother thought.. If you do change the strap that holds the cover if there is one, so the buckle is easier to get at, Then you can put a plastic handle PLASTIC PLEASE) on the cover to make it easier to lift.

    protection against a dropped wrench, Lovelier to look at, protection agains acid rain, and other atmospheric issues,including bird droppings.
  • old_guy's avatar
    old_guy
    Explorer
    May 14, 2016
    a lot of people do not know this but dirt on the top of a battery will drain the battery of it's voltage.
  • profdant139's avatar
    profdant139
    Explorer II
    May 13, 2016
    Beyond the issue of electrocution, it's probably a good idea to protect the batteries from the elements, especially the Washington rain. Also, a box will deter theft. I secure a cable and a padlock tightly around both of my two boxes. That will not stop a thief, but it will slow them down a little. If most crimes are crimes of opportunity, this makes it a little less opportune.
  • RinconVTR's avatar
    RinconVTR
    Explorer
    May 13, 2016
    Exterior/Exposed batteries REQUIRE a box and cover.

    In most States, its the law.
  • MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
    MEXICOWANDERER
    Explorer
    May 13, 2016
    Oooooooooooo a new universe for semi grown children. If you have no possibility of tampering that's one thing.

    Dirt dampened by battery acid makes a great electrical drain. Especially when resistance between cells is bypassed by home brew case drain.

    Dig up a scrap semi-truck mud flap and saw it to fit atop the battery.
  • path1's avatar
    path1
    Explorer
    May 13, 2016
    beemerphile1 wrote:
    Drop a wrench, awning rod, or anything metal across the posts and answer your own question. The electrical connections definitely need covered for safety, yours, your family, and the neighbor kid.

    A battery in an engine compartment does have a battery cover, most call it a hood, some call it a bonnet.


    Yes, was thinking of non conductive cover (plastic)
  • beemerphile1's avatar
    beemerphile1
    Explorer
    May 13, 2016
    Drop a wrench, awning rod, or anything metal across the posts and answer your own question. The electrical connections definitely need covered for safety, yours, your family, and the neighbor kid.

    A battery in an engine compartment does have a battery cover, most call it a hood, some call it a bonnet.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    May 13, 2016
    No need for covers. Take a look under your vehicle hood... no battery box either.
    All you need is a hold down.

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