Switch 2-12volt batteries to 2-6volt batteries

[jwd53]

What has anyone done to the battery tray to support a switch out of 2-12v to2-6v batteries. I have an 08 Voyage 32H. Is the stock tray sturdy enough for the switch?

[Chief]

Not sure any modification to the tray would be necessary. If the 2 6V batteries will fit in the space provided I would weigh each pair. If the difference in weight is substantial (+25-50%) then I would consider beefing up the tray. Winnie or the manufacturer of the tray may have some spec's on the max allowable weight that the tray will safely carry.

[codgerbill]

I am the second owner of my current motor home. The previous owner replaced the 2 12V chassis batteries with 2 6V batteries. The battery tray is the original one and I do not see a problem with the 2 6V batteries fitting on the tray. Fits like it was designed for them.

[BryanL]

re: "If the difference in weight is substantial (+25-50%) then I would consider beefing up the tray."

good point. The batteries need to fit and there isn't much sense in changing batteries unless you can get a difference in weight of 20% or more.

Do watch out for the 6v vs 12v 'debate' as there really isn't much there. The T105 is a bit bigger battery than a group 27 but no so much as to make a significant difference. Placebos do seem to be a big factor here, though.

[John Hilley]

Quote:

Originally Posted by BryanL re: "If the difference in weight is substantial (+25-50%) then I would consider beefing up the tray." good point. The batteries need to fit and there isn't much sense in changing batteries unless you can get a difference in weight of 20% or more. Do watch out for the 6v vs 12v 'debate' as there really isn't much there. The T105 is a bit bigger battery than a group 27 but no so much as to make a significant difference. Placebos do seem to be a big factor here, though.

True if the group 27 are true deep cycle batteries. Too many of them are a hybrid marine/deep cycle type that tries to incorporate the the starting battery requirements of marine use with deep cycle storage and charging requirements.

[tderonne]

Lots of us have 4 6 volts in place of the 2 original batteries, and still have the chassis battery in there. I didn't beef mine up and have had no problems, or signs of problems.

[BryanL]

re: "true deep cycle batteries"

Don't get me started on this one ...

If you can come up with an objective and pertinent and useful measure that will discriminate between a "true deep cycle" and a "deep cycle" or even an SLI battery for that matter, please let me know. I've been looking for years and haven't found such measure.

Of course, I am thinking about those batteries commonly used in RV's and readily available at retail. No submarines, specialty purpose thingies, traction batteries, or other such truck, please.

Some things to keep in mind: All lead acid batteries suffer if subject to routine deep (80% DoD) discharging. Cycle life isn't an issue for typical RV use. Energy density by weight for lead acid batteries is within a narrow range.

There is so much money and effort wasted in seeking a magic bullet when it comes to batteries, so many unsupportable myths and assertions, that it is really rather sad. Think and read critically, depend upon good measures that mean something, and watch out for platitudes, sales and marketing labels and hype, and following the herd over the cliff of non-reason.

[jwd53]

Brian L....What brand 6v battery do you recommend?

[BryanL]

re: "What brand 6v battery do you recommend?"

Buy a battery from a reputable retailer who sells a lot to folks who uses them like you do and will stand behind what he sells. Then go by specifications, warranty, and cost.

[dirko]

Hi Ho: Since you asked, I buy the least expensive golf cart batteries I can find. They are designed for the kind of use in a motorhome. Costco and Sams Club both have them at under $90. Be sure to hook them up correctly.
Dirk