Community Forums

ColoradoBnd · 05-29-2017, 05:35 AM

I am upgrading my 2006 coach to all new Lifeline batteries. 2 group 31 starting batteries and 6-6V pairs for the house batteries. The gains in AH's for 6 volt batteries is simply too great not to do (going to have residential refrigerator). So here is my question - I can only get 2 start batteries and 4 6V batteries into the measurements for my battery tray. Did Newmar make the tray larger in newer coaches, or did they put one 6V pair in the basement to get to the 6-6V batteries specs I see on some coaches?

LJowdy · 05-29-2017, 06:14 AM

My 2016 Dutch Star has all (6) on one tray.

GaryKD · 05-29-2017, 06:22 AM

Hi thompsdw,
Which 2006 Newmar do you have?

ColoradoBnd · 05-29-2017, 06:26 AM

Mountain aire

GaryKD · 05-29-2017, 06:46 AM

Hi thompsdw,
The answer to your question is yes. Newmar has battery trays that hold up to 8 coach batteries. For you, the question is where to put it. On a 2006, as best I remember, the tray location has constraints. Concern yourself with engine, muffler, etc all generating heat and take up space an extended tray, in the same location would be subject to.

If one was to put the additional 2 batteries in another location; that brings the question of cable length in consideration. The original 2K Watt inverter has about 16 AMPs of through put. Don't know if you are going this route, just be aware.

Unless you are going to boondock, consider staying with the 4 battery setup. When traveling the coach batteries will be charged by the engine. When on shore or generator power the batteries will be charged by those power sources. For me, this is the way I'd go. If you minimize door opening the drain should not be that great.

ColoradoBnd · 05-29-2017, 07:03 AM

Ok, thanks. My storage tray is 18-1/4" x 38-1/2" and has to hold the house and start batteries. I will have the dealer do the 4 and add two additional lifelines to my list. I have all the equip to fabricate cables and calculate gauge.

Boomer · 06-05-2017, 12:05 PM

We have 4 in basement and 2 under the hood by the engine

Scottybdivin · 06-05-2017, 01:22 PM

I increased from 6 to 8 6V batteries on my 07 MADP. You can read about it http://www.irv2.com/forums/f103/my-b...-a-273727.html and maybe get some ideas.