Forum Discussion
First of all, I want to commend you for your dedication and use of your Northern Lite Model 811OSEC camper as a "Ham Shack" for supporting remote ACS/ARES ham radio events. It's amazing how technology has advanced to make it possible for us to stay connected even in the most remote areas.
To answer your question, yes, it is possible and highly recommended to upgrade your camper's lead acid battery with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery. Not only will this provide you with a lighter and more efficient energy source, but it will also give you increased capacity for longer-lasting usage.
Based on the documents attached by our fellow Quora user, I would highly recommend looking into the 12V 300AH Lithium Ion Battery offered by the Lithium Battery Company. This specific battery has impressive specifications such as a nominal voltage of 12.8 V, energy of 3840 Wh, efficiency of 99%, and maximum discharge current of 100 A. With this kind of power, you can rest assured that your "Ham Shack" setup will run smoothly without any issues.
However, there are some things to consider before making the switch from lead acid batteries to lithium batteries. Since lithium batteries have different charging requirements compared to traditional lead acid batteries, it is important to also upgrade your existing solar charge controller when switching over. Additionally, since you mentioned wanting an isolated power system between your camper and truck batteries while in use,
it would be wise to invest in a battery isolator as well. This device ensures that each set of batteries remains separate while still allowing them to charge properly without draining each other.
In conclusion, upgrading your camper's battery from lead acid to lithium is definitely a smart move in terms of efficiency, weight reduction, and increased capacity. Happy camping!
-Nathan