Batteries really off?

[doc]

We are getting ready for a trip toward the end of the week. Today I went out and turned on the refrigerator to make sure the ice maker is functioning. I always level the coach before running the refrigerator because I am so anal about damaging something. Hit the power button and the auto level after turning on the switch on. The auto function started, pump motor running etc. Then I realized I had not turned the batteries on. This is the small 'on' and 'store' switch next to the entry door. Sure enough, it was off. I turned on the switch on and the coach never missed a beat leveling. Thinking about it, I began wondering why anything was leveling if the batteries were off. This is not the first time something like this has happened. I have cranked and started the engine with the batteries in the store position. The only thing I can figure is the chassis battery(s) was running the leveing motor/pump and it was not 'off' with the coach batteries. Comments or explanations?

[doc]

We are getting ready for a trip toward the end of the week. Today I went out and turned on the refrigerator to make sure the ice maker is functioning. I always level the coach before running the refrigerator because I am so anal about damaging something. Hit the power button and the auto level after turning on the switch on. The auto function started, pump motor running etc. Then I realized I had not turned the batteries on. This is the small 'on' and 'store' switch next to the entry door. Sure enough, it was off. I turned on the switch on and the coach never missed a beat leveling. Thinking about it, I began wondering why anything was leveling if the batteries were off. This is not the first time something like this has happened. I have cranked and started the engine with the batteries in the store position. The only thing I can figure is the chassis battery(s) was running the leveing motor/pump and it was not 'off' with the coach batteries. Comments or explanations?

[Snowfitter]

You are right. The chassis battery runs the leveling system. The Damon manual says to start engine before using the leveling system. Would suspect it is due to the amp draw of the electric pump that powers the leveling system.

[doc]

Thanks Snow, after I started typing I thought that might be what it is. So in order to kill the chassis batteries I would have to add a disconnect on the chassis batts. Wonder would this be a good idea since the transmission and (I believe) engine require power to operate properly. I expect I will just let it go.

[John-D]

Depending on several things the Inteltec Battery Control center in my rig can disconnect chassis batteries while leaving SOME things connected (The power to the control switch for the batteries for example) what I do not know is if it keeps power to the ECC and TCC (Computers) or not. (Or radio memory or or well you get the idea)

What I recommend, rather than disconnecting batteries, IF YOU HAVE A GOOD CONVERTER is plugging in, a 20 amp line will run the converter with a bit left over for other stuff even with dead batteries. .. With full batteries a 20 amp line will run one A/C or Microwave in addition to the converter. Very handy as it means you can use the rig for some stuff... I have a properly installed 30 amp outlet next to where I park the rig.. 20 amp line though (20 amp breaker at the house end) Works great.. With the Progressive Dynamics converter they put in my rig I have to watter my batteries about once a year