Question about Battery Disconnect Switches

[RTegarini]

I tend to have a dead chassis (engine) battery if I don't run the engine within that time frame. I turn off the step switch and I turn off the power switch to the coach.

I'd like to install a battery disconnect switch to the positive side of the chassis battery and would like to know if anyone here has installed either the Flaming River Battery Disconnect Switch #FR1003 or the Summit Racing Battery Disconnect Switch #830050.

I'm no electrician, but would either of these work as a 12v battery disconnect?

Thank you - RT

http://www.flamingriver.com/index.ph...5/s0003/FR1003

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-830050/

[John Hilley]

Either should work just fine. You might also look at marine battery switches

[Wayne M]

You do not have any information on your coach except that it is an Itasca.

On my 2008 Winnebago Destination, the battery disconnect switch for both the service battery and the house batteries have to be ON. You are correct in turning off the step. It is possible that your built in charger does not charge the service battery. That you would have to find out from Winnebago. I called them and talked to a technician and received the information that I have provided here on my coach. Other than interior design, there is not to much of a difference between Winnebago and Itasca.

[CJ7ole]

I have the same problem with mine, as it is stored where I am not able to plug it into shore power. Sometimes for 4 months when I leave it in FL for the winter (I go to FL for 3 weeks in November and return to FL mid March for 6 weeks before returning to MI. I like winters, I know...) Too many parasitic drains on the chassis battery. And too many choices on disconnect switches.

[Hikerdogs]

I installed the one from Flaming River in our motorhome several years ago to prevent having a dead chassis battery. The coach sometimes sits for several months in temperatures as low as -20*F. It starts every time without any problems.

I originally mounted it under the steps between the chassis and house batteries. When I had to replace the house batteries I had to remove it first before I could get out either of the batteries. I relocated it to the side of the box near the chassis battery. Now I can remove and reinstall any of the batteries without moving anything.

To shut off or turn on the battery I just unsnap the top step raise it enough to get my hand in and turn the handle of the switch

[Stevegd007]

For my coach, when parked at home near shore power, I have been using this: RVUpgradeStore - BatteryMINDer 12 Volt Battery Charger Conditioner Desulphator. Just another option.
Happy trails.