To more fully explore the question of a "maintenance free" batteries I called Newmar Customer Support to get their position. Initially I was told that they would need fluid periodically, however when I told them that IRV2 respondents said that they were truly maintenance free, the rep. called Freightliner for clarification. The essence, of his response, was that they are similar to the standard auto battery but are a heavier duty style. The plate grids components are thicker and use more durable components. The grids often use calcium, cadmium or strontium which reduce the gassing (which causes moisture loss). This heavier-duty system ensures that fluid loss is minimal and results in a much longer functional life. The batteries, which are called lead-calcium, are Allision batteries made by a subsidiary to Freightliner Corp.
I want to thank all of the respondents which resulted in a more thorough understanding of the term a "maintenance free" battery.
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Geoff & Laura Neumann
2015 Dutch Star 3736
2014 Jeep Grand Blue Ox Air Force One
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