Converter charges chassis batteries?

[Wannabe]

It seems the question is divided 50/50 about whether the converter also charges the chassis batteries when on shore or generator power. It seems that the answers are divided among different brands of RVs. I know the converter charges the house batteries; but, on my RV (see signature below), does it also charge the chassis batteries and, if so, how? Thanks for your replies!

[BCooke]

Try this
Intellitec IRD

I am not familiar with which is a higher unit than which.

[bluepill]

Check the chassis battery voltage when you are on shore/genny. If it's above 13.1 volts, you have some kind of BIRD or Trik-L-Start system that's charging the chassis battery.

[RickO]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bluepill Check the chassis battery voltage when you are on shore/genny. If it's above 13.1 volts, you have some kind of BIRD or Trik-L-Start system that's charging the chassis battery.

X2

[Our Time]

If your coach has not been modified from the factory, it does NOT charge the chassis batteries. Adding a Trik-L-Start charger is a easy way to cure the problem. Simple 10 minute installation. But as already stated, check the battery voltage while connected to shore power. If not 13 or above, you need the charger.

[Wannabe]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Our Time If your coach has not been modified from the factory, it does NOT charge the chassis batteries. Adding a Trik-L-Start charger is a easy way to cure the problem. Simple 10 minute installation. But as already stated, check the battery voltage while connected to shore power. If not 13 or above, you need the charger.

I checked the house batteries and they were at 13.46 volts, and the chassis batteries were 13.45. I am the second owner, but don't see any sign of anything being added. The reason I asked the question was to see if something like a BIRD was installed at the factory and the question was keyed to my model and year. I assumed that the chassis batteries must be charging because I haven't run the engine for two weeks, but have been plugged in. I guess I was concerned because when I start the engine it usually says "low battery" (is this normal?).

[Our Time]

The BIRD relay would be in the DC power panel, left front panel forward of the wheels. You coach is basically the same as mine. Maybe you got lucky and had one installed. Based on your voltage readings, I would say you are OK. Low Battery light is not normal. Have you checked for maybe a dead battery cell?

[YC1]

The low battery is normal. The alternator is not activated for a short time to let the engine come alive. It absolutely sounds like you have the BIRD. I believe the Knight is a clone of the Endeavor which I have a 2008 too. With those voltage readings I am certain of it.

Here is a way to tell with your ear alone. Turn engine off, solar off if you have it or do this at night, and no generator running. Open the battery compartment and look for a large solenoid mounted to the back wall. Plug in shoreline and be sure you have the charger turned on. Listen for two minutes or more. When you hear a clunk the large solenoid has engaged and the voltage on each of the large terminals should be the same. You measured already so as I mentioned, you have a bird circuit. That solenoid gets hot to the touch when activated so be careful when you put your fingers on it.

[Our Time]

I don't have a "low battery" light on our coach. If you're talking about the battery voltage showing low on start up, YC1 is correct. It takes a few moments to engerize the alternator to bring the voltage up.

[Wannabe]

Quote:

Originally Posted by YC1 The low battery is normal. The alternator is not activated for a short time to let the engine come alive. Some one else had also confirmed that so I'll quit worrying. It absolutely sounds like you have the BIRD. I believe the Knight is a clone of the Endeavor which I have a 2008 too. With those voltage readings I am certain of it. Open the battery compartment and look for a large solenoid mounted to the back wall.

On the back wall below the large battery fuse panel box, there is what looks like a solenoid manufactured by Trombetta. The wires from it are fairly small so it must not take a lot of voltage. I haven't checked it like you suggested because we're under storm warning and the DW doesn't think I should be out there (something about a tree limb breaking off), but it looks like you described.

[YC1]

Here is more information that you might need or want.

[nodine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wannabe On the back wall below the large battery fuse panel box, there is what looks like a solenoid manufactured by Trombetta. The wires from it are fairly small so it must not take a lot of voltage. I haven't checked it like you suggested because we're under storm warning and the DW doesn't think I should be out there (something about a tree limb breaking off), but it looks like you described.

That solenoid is usually for connecting the house batteries to the chassis batteries for a boost to start the engine. There should be a switch near the driver. It could also be controled by the BIRD. Across that solenoid is where most of us connect the Trik-L-Start.

Bob

[Wannabe]

Monaco verified that my coach has a relay in the front driver's side compartment (as previously stated) with two blue wires that allow the converter to charge both sets of batteries. So looks like I'm good to go. Thanks to all for the advice and PDFs!