Community Forums

bill jones · 04-14-2009, 05:38 PM

The batteries on my coach are showing their age (six years).
I guess it's time to change them. The batteries are getting weak (specific gravity is 1.255 average).
They are group 31 lead acid 12 volt deep cycle Trojans batteries.

I realize that AGM batteries are the best but, looking at the cost , I think regular lead acid batteries are best for part time boondocking. I also think Trojans are overpriced.

Where are the best places in the Southwest and/or the Northwest to buy new ones? I notice neither WalMart nor Costco post batteries or prices on their web sites.

What are your thoughts?

two2go · 04-14-2009, 06:26 PM

I bought my coach used at two years old, and now it is four years old. Both original Trojan batteries have failed. I think that was brought on by the fact that both batteries were pretty much dry when I first inspected the coach after I bought it. They never were good for more than one day's dry camping. I could not find 6v deep cycle batteries in the Arizona WalMarts, but I got one at the Tucson Costco for $76 each exchange. Other than being a different color, the case and top look like they came out of the same plastic molds as the Trojans. The label said Johnson Controls. So far so good, and if they only last half as long as a Trojan or some other brand, the cost will be a wash. I paid $130 for a private brand battery last fall.

MARANATHA · 04-14-2009, 08:22 PM

Hi there,

If you are not a heavy boondocker, 2-12v deep cycle batt will meet your purpose. A common brand are acceptable. Most batt anyways needs water maintenance and must be properly charge. Consider this time to buy solar medium panel too for charging , it is a good batt maintainer and will give you a long life batt. I've one on my unit for years and had no problem. My original interstate batt last for 9 years, and believe me, the secret of long life batt is no other than proper maintenance. Go to any batt website and they will tell you, maintenance is the key.

bill jones · 04-15-2009, 11:09 AM

A little more info; I have three 12 v. batteries in the compartment, two 120 watt solar panels, the nifty watering system and I maintain my batteries. The batteries came new with the coach and have never been abused. It's just their time.

I will try the Costco in Surprise, AZ. We will be spending the Summer on the Oregon coast, and there is no sales tax in Or.

The battery compartment can take four 6V batteries but the vertical clearance is very close. There is a chance tor the positive terminals to touch the chassis. I know some people do use 6V but I'm not comfortable with that arrangement.

Just looking for the best place to buy those 12 V batteries.