Check Your Battery(s)

dave54 wrote:
Yeah, they are a real PITA to access. Behind the propane tanks, remove some straps in a space barely large enough for my fingers to fit, snap open the box lids with a long screwdriver, just to see the top of the batteries.

I try to check them at every propane refill, but sometimes I say heck with it and I'll check them later. Then usually don't.

During our last trip I noticed they went from full charge to 50% in one night with the heater on. So I checked and they were thirsty. They are four year old batteries, so it may be time to replace.

Jeez......I almost thought I wrote what you wrote. Exact same story.
Except that my batteries are still holding a charge.

Yeah, they are a real PITA to access. Behind the propane tanks, remove some straps in a space barely large enough for my fingers to fit, snap open the box lids with a long screwdriver, just to see the top of the batteries.

I try to check them at every propane refill, but sometimes I say heck with it and I'll check them later. Then usually don't.

During our last trip I noticed they went from full charge to 50% in one night with the heater on. So I checked and they were thirsty. They are four year old batteries, so it may be time to replace.

I have never had to add a drop to our one battery in 13 years. Replaced it at 6 years after it sat all winter on a tripped GFCI. Replaced it last year since it was 6 years old. Cheap Interstate group 29 on a PD converter 24/7 when parked. Used on several trips per year, most without hookups.

Checked mine the other day too. Still covering the plates but added nearly 1/2 liter of water to both of mine.

#1nobby wrote:
...my batteries are hidden down below the tanks I thought I'd take a look...

Good situation for a remote watering system. And then, go AGM for your next set of batteries.

The moral to the story is to check the water level monthly.

First of the month...battery check time unless camping, then weekly. Batteries are expensive!

Thanks for the reminder. It's been hot in our area for a few months and I haven't checked water level for about 6 weeks. Going to do that today on all vehicles including golf cart and UTV.