Battery Upgrade

[mgscott4]

I just upgraded my batteries from (2) 12V 115 Amp/HR batteries to (4) 6V 220 Amp/HR golf cart batteries. This almost doubles my output power from 230 to 440. I got the batteries from Sams Club for $78 each plus $9 core charge. I made a new battery tray with a 2" lip to keep the batteries in place. And pinned the tray to keep it from sliding when traveling.

I also installed a Trimetric 2025RV battery monitor. I can now see exactly how much is going in or coming out of my batteries. You can see the brass shunt in the left side of the battery compartment.

Solar panels are next, once I know exactly how much power I really need.

[KJINTF]

Looks like a great first step
Always something to do when you have a Motor Home - Some times too much
How much PV solar wattage are you considering?
Have you decided on a controller?
The 2025RV lets you monitor the starting battery voltage in addition to the new battery bank.

Enjoy the new batteries - they should last many years

[Mr_D]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mgscott4 I just upgraded my batteries from (2) 12V 115 Amp/HR batteries to (4) 6V 220 Amp/HR golf cart batteries. This almost doubles my output power from 230 to 440. I got the batteries from Sams Club for $78 each plus $9 core charge. I made a new battery tray with a 2" lip to keep the batteries in place. And pinned the tray to keep it from sliding when traveling. I also installed a Trimetric 2025RV battery monitor. I can now see exactly how much is going in or coming out of my batteries. You can see the brass shunt in the left side of the battery compartment. Solar panels are next, once I know exactly how much power I really need.

Actually with your 12V batteries you had 115 amps available and even that was pushing it since they probably weren't deep cycle batteries. With the 4-6V you have 220 available since they should never (for best life) be pulled down below 50% charge.

[RJay]

Good Job. I would recommend you find a way to secure each battery to the tray. I've been over a few road construction stretches that would definitely rearrange those batteries. Better safe than sorry.

[Paw John]

MgScott4

Good looking battery tray. If I was you I would move the inside spacers a little bit and then have the tray linex sprayed. I had mine done and very happy, No rusting and if the batteries spill over. It will wipe off. I too think you need to strap them in like RJay said.

[mgscott4]

I agree with both RJay and Paw John, and have added bungee cords (black Rubber) to hold them down.

When I made the tray I sprayed it with truck bed liner from a can I bought at Autozone. It has a thick coat and rough surface and should hold up well.

Thanks for the input.

[Full.Monte]

Bungee tie-downs seem risky to me. There is a chance that battery acid will eat them. Also, there may be too much flex in them to keep the batteries in place when you hit a big bump.