Replacing batteries - is it that easy

[WimbledonDolphin]

I have a DolphinLX with 4 house batteries, charger, Inverter, Zantrex etc. I need to replace my batteries as they are getting old and probably past their time. I have 4 Interstate Workaholic U2200 batteries which I will replace with same as I have had great luck with them. My question is it as easy as removing the batteries and replacing them with the new ones using the same wires in same series. Do I have to do anything with the Zantrex, inverter etc. Don't want to screw this up because its been great so far so I will have it done if it requires much more than that. Any help is greatly appreciated. Looks like I could save several $$$$ if I did it myself.
Thanks

[coulter6]

Yes, it's that easy, especially if you're using the same type batteries.

I would recommend you take a picture of your current setup to refer back to if needed. Be aware that those batteries batteries are heavy so lift properly .

Good luck.

[RJay]

Yes, take plenty of pictures showing how the batteries are oriented in the tray and how the wiring is interconnected between the batteries. Very important, if you are connected to shore power when you do this be sure to completely turn off the inverter.

[Theberrys]

Here is a picture of the four batteries in my Tradewinds and it will be the same in your Dolphin. Ignore the Shunt and meter as I added them after market.
https://skydrive.live.com/?cid=ae67f...2766057%212740

Dick

[DrScott]

Be certain the '+' and '-' are oriented the proper way--as they were before you pulled the old batteries. Gotta love digital cameras for stuff like this.

[Scooter]

I'm the last person to ask, but........my feeble memory recalls something about a thin coat of dielectric gel......or felt washers that go somewhere.....

Phrannie.org might have some good info.

[DrScott]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scooter I'm the last person to ask, but........my feeble memory recalls something about a thin coat of dielectric gel......or felt washers that go somewhere..... Phrannie.org might have some good info.

You can get the felt washers and battery grease at AutoZone I know. Probably available at most places you get batteries too.

[Mr_D]

Be sure you don't make a direct short. Seems to me I read a post about a rig burning up due to an accidental battery terminal connect.

Our U-2200's are now 9½ years old and still doing fine, but I suppose I better get ready to do mine also, maybe next year? I did go by O'Reilleys last Friday and get a can of battery cleaner and another of anti corrosion spray.

[frankdamp]

I replaced the very weak, single 27-size battery in my rig with two same size 12V deep-cycle RV/Marine batts from Costco. The tray was the right size for a pair and I'm electrically savvy enough to get the hookups in parallel with additional cables from NAPA.

Working fine after their second season.

[wa8yxm]

In addition to photos I recommend as a first step, taking two small cans of spray paint, Red and Black, on the Positive (the wires hooked to the positive terminal that run off somewhere other than another battery) RED spray paint.

on the negative.. black.

[RJay]

Using dielectric grease on the battery terminals or the cable connectors is a misapplication of the product and should not be used on 12 volt systems.

[sgtjoe]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RJay Using dielectric grease on the battery terminals or the cable connectors is a misapplication of the product and should not be used on 12 volt systems.

Why?? I bought it based on Auto Zone saying to use it.

[Ramblin]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RJay Using dielectric grease on the battery terminals or the cable connectors is a misapplication of the product and should not be used on 12 volt systems.

I've used dielectric grease on the battery terminals of every single 12v battery I've ever bought, never had any problem doing it. Keeps the corrosion in check, I'm told. I never have a problem with corrosion, so I assume it works, though it could just be coincidence I suppose.

I also use it in trailer light connectors, to good effect.

I'd really like to know why I shouldn't do it.

[sgtjoe]

Okay, I went out to the MH and got the tube of dielectric and on the back it says how to use it for battery connectors and terminals.