Community Forums

jumper777 · 09-19-2017, 07:07 AM

I am considering installing a separate 12v battery to start my Onan 10k generator. I've had some issues in the past with not enough power from my coach batteries (on a 2011 Phaeton) to start it so am looking into this. Has anyone done this themselves and can offer advice? I'm aware that I'll need to install a trickle charger, among other things. I know this is treating the symptom, not the cause, but I like this idea as a backup if nothing else. Thank you!

Sbrownstein · 09-19-2017, 07:17 AM

If you have a boost switch you can use it to start your generator when the house can't seem to do it. In addition, you could rewire the generator to start off of the chassis battery, which is pretty much what a boost switch does anyway.

vsheetz · 09-19-2017, 07:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sbrownstein

If you have a boost switch you can use it to start your generator when the house can't seem to do it. In addition, you could rewire the generator to start off of the chassis battery, which is pretty much what a boost switch does anyway.

I have 2012 Phaeton. When dry camping it's not uncommon for the house batteries to not have enough juice to start the 10k generator after overnight. Push and hold the boost switch for a few seconds - continue holding the boost switch and start the generator. Fires right up every time.

Some people have installed another battery just for the genny. I think there are posts with details on TRVN.

hypoxia · 09-19-2017, 07:57 AM

I considered it but in the end I cleaned all of the ground connections as well as the 12 v connections and terminals which cured my problem.

Hgrace56 · 09-19-2017, 09:06 AM

I just carry a compact Lithium ion jump kit if there are issues.
Can charge m portable devices with it too.

joedaddy805 · 09-20-2017, 07:55 AM

I did this one my toy hauler. I converted to 2 6volt batteries. Then I put a lil riding lawn mower battery to start my Generator. Very simple job. I just took the starting cable from Gen and ran it to new battery. As of now I just have a charger plugged in to keep it charged till i wire up the charging system for it. But since Ive done this I have never had to go out in the cold morning and jump start my Gen. Best upgrade Ive done so far. I just bought a lil ride on lawn mower battery and but a lil frame to mount it under the trailer. I think it cost me 30 bucks to do it since the battery only cost me 20 bucks fro Walmart.