Starting Generator with dead batteries
So I bought a TC that I'm currently remodeling. The generator seems to be in good condition (Onan 2500, propane). When I first got it, I tested it and it ran fine. But the battery that came with the c...
Forum Discussion
bigfootford wrote:
First, use absolute caution using jumper cables or even installing new batteries!
Even if someone helps you jump it... Watch like a HAWK! Know that + goes to + and - goes to -!!!!
Why?
There have been many disasters posted here on RV.net of folks hooking their batteries backwards and blowing all of the voltage sensitive appliances etc electronics... BIG $$$!
ABSOLUTE attention to polarity is necessary.
That said... There are many issues you will need to learn about.....A crawl before you walk thing.
Your camper can not sit over 1-2 months without shore power on it or have solar to maintain your batteries.. Other wise you will be replacing batteries yearly.
If you could disclose an approximate where you live there should be some RV.net TC'er nearby that could help and teach you....
Do not go out and purchase batteries without first determining what type of Converter/charger you have.
The box that sits under the step is where the converter is on the BF.
Open the little door and check the make and model...
If it a Magnetek you will need to upgrade that. I am not sure what year they upgraded.
I can not even imagine AGM batteries being maintained by a magnetek so maybe the previous owner upgraded or the factory did.
Hope there is someone nearby that can help you get started!
Congratulations on your combo truck and camper... We love our BF... had it 17 years now... nearly 200,000 miles on it... hahahaaaa 2 trucks.
Jim
This is super helpful, Jim.. Thank you! I am on the very East End of Long Island, NY (The North Fork). I don't see many fellow campers out here so I doubt there are any around. But it's a big boating area and I have a marine electrician friend who is going to help me with my solar/battery setup when that time comes. I've just been focusing on the remodel right now and want to wait on the electrical side of things until I'm ready to start moving in.
I just checked and it looks like the previous owners did replace the original Magnetek. I'm having a hard time telling for sure (as I have to take the whole thing apart to see the model #) but there's some paperwork saying they replaced it with a Progressive Dynamics PD9160A Charger/Converter with the little charge wizard thing.
So do I need to buy a new converter charger? Any idea if this one is any good? If not, any recommendations? I'll be upgrading my battery bank to two 6V (haven't yet decided if I'm going with T105s or Lifeline AGMs.. but definitely two 6V).
