Dodge sportsman vogue 77 electrical questions

Sneeblii wrote:
So these sportsmans generally didnt come with a solenoid switch that automatically isolates the batteries? Was the generator supposed to be used as a full time means of electricity?

Well, what you are dealing with is that span of time when RV electrical systems were still evolving. Some were more sophisticated and had good, multistage converters, a relay-based battery isolator, and a well executed 12V distribution panel. Most did not. My '71 Starcraft came with the PD-807 deck-mount power supply and a special accessory add-on circuit board that allowed for better charging (didn't boil out a battery, I assume). As things progressed, better converters started entering the market and bi-directional diode based battery isolators appeared.

The outline for checking battery voltages and charger function were posted. If you don't have an isolator between the starter battery and the RV's house battery, you can add in a solenoid relay next to the under-hood starter battery. It is not a terribly hard thing to install and will offer sure fire isolation without the voltage drop common to diode based isolators. Ask away, if interested.

FWIW, when I was rebuilding my '71 Starcraft, I decided to upgrade all of the electrical systems and installed solar charging. I knew I would be in on this for the long haul and solar has been one of the best improvements for ease and maintenance of batteries. The only thing I'd wish for now is more solar power and more batteries to store that "free" energy.