Forum Discussion

Calkidd's avatar
Calkidd
Explorer
Apr 25, 2016

Battery platform and placement

I have a 2006 Sierra Sport 38' toyhauler. The batteries are crammed into this little itty bitty space making it hard to check and service them plus there is only enough room for two of them. I want to move them into the storage compartment in the event I expand to two additional 6 volts. I have this cubby space, just to the left of the opening, on the driver's side with enough room for four 6 volt batteries. What my dilemma is, is how to make a platform that will make it easy to pull out the batteries to the side out towards the opening in order to get to the batteries.

I was thinking roller transfer bearings with some type of locking system to keep the platform from moving around during transit.

I wasn't going to encase them in a container but rather have them strapped down to a sheet of plywood with dividers and boarders. Just above the batteries is a small compartment door that I would replace with a vent cover for circulation.

Any ideas or opinions are welcome.

  • westend's avatar
    westend
    Explorer
    Apr 25, 2016
    There are a number of battery drawer installations that have been posted on the Forum.

    I don't use this option since I have used other locations for my batteries.

    Here is what I would be considering if doing this project: Some type of catchment for spilled acid and water from the refilling process. This could be as simple as a plastic tray or a dedicated battery box. Since batteries are heavy, I would use either ball bearings or inline skate wheels as the rolling mechanism instead of drawer slides. Guides could be made with a single piece of angle material. It may be necessary to reinforce the compartment floor. A tray stop so that the tray doesn't slide completely out unless I wanted it to. The same could contain the tray in it's transportation mode (i.e. not rolling back and forth). Adequate venting so that the hydrogen and sulfur dioxide can be displaced to the exterior when charging. If more than two batteries, I would probably choose an active system for this, i.e. a computer fan. Beyond that, the function and beauty is in the hands of the builder.

    Good luck with your project!
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Apr 25, 2016
    The batteries should be in an enclosed container since they are in a storage area.

    We used this this battery box which we sealed and vented for mounting inside my son’s 5er storage area.
  • corvettekent's avatar
    corvettekent
    Explorer
    Apr 25, 2016
    Sounds like you have a good plan with the location and venting. Have you looked at heavy duty drawer slides?
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Apr 25, 2016
    Unless they are AGM you will have to provide for venting of poison fumes and draining or capture of fluids... IMO the best place for the batteries in on the trailer tongue in a lock box...

    Torklif has nice metal battery boxes designed for this...

    Roy Ken

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