Community Forums

LCDRAKAllen · 12-12-2015, 06:15 PM

Okay, so I have a question regarding batteries in my 2015 BayStar 3401, I have 2 12V deep cycle batteries that have a resting charge of 12.3V. I think that I need to add H2O to them, which seems pretty straight forward, I plan to add distilled water to top them off.

Is there any "special way" it should be performed? I plan to use a small funnel, as I don't have the "Battery refill kit".

I connect my Coach to the house power via extension cord, for approx 24-48hrs to pack and unpack the rig after trips. I recall seeing someplace that this can cause the batteries to run "hot"? Is this okay to do?

Since I have noticed the lower (12.3V) on the battery, it seems that the "Battery Disconnect" switch takes longer to power on? I have it stored and the storage facility uses the switch when it's placed in the lot. When I push it, it dimly lights and then goes off without turning everything on, I have to push it 2 times and hold in the on position and then it engages, but slowly. Any ideas or suggestions?

Thanks in advance, I eagerly await your sage advice, my Newmarian compatriots

KenNJ · 12-12-2015, 07:06 PM

I use a good ol kitchen baster. Works perfectly with no mess for me. I have only had to use it twice since purchasing our coach new. I do not find my levels drop fast enough to warrant a watering system.

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HavingABlast · 12-12-2015, 08:45 PM

X2 on the baster...going to ask Santa for the pro-fill system

newmarpusher · 12-12-2015, 08:59 PM

I've gone with AGMs on my last three MH's. I'm done with baby sitting batteries.

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Lloydu · 12-12-2015, 09:06 PM

AGMs for me also.

J Birder · 12-12-2015, 09:17 PM

These things http://www.amazon.com/Cycle-Battery-...battery+filler work quite well.

you just stick the spout into the hole and press down. When the water is correct, it shuts off the flow. You don't need to be able to see down into the cell,

dpinvidic · 12-12-2015, 09:57 PM

While it is true thst the water should be filled up to the splt rings, it wont help your charge unless some plates are exposed.

A fully charged battery should measure 12.65v at rest.
Does your charger sequence through Bulk, Absorb, and Float states.

You dhould measure your batteries with a meter before you use the disconnect switch.

Regards,

Dan

"007" · 12-12-2015, 10:38 PM

In QT's # 3 you will find this information for your batteries.
More battery information.
Always have battery cut off switch on when hooked up to shore power.
If you can always leave battery system charger plugged in so charging system can maintain all the battery systems in coach.
AGM batteries require less maintenance and cleaner battery area.

cenfl · 12-13-2015, 05:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newmarpusher

I've gone with AGMs on my last three MH's. I'm done with baby sitting batteries.

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Are there any settings on converter or inverter or anything else that need to be changed when replacing wet cell with AGM batteries?

CoachC · 12-13-2015, 06:04 AM

Came across and bought a clear plastic "catsup" bottle for under a buck. Works great for topping off the cells. Leaving the MH plugged in for the winter. Stays pretty well in the float charge mode.
Stored at my home so able to do some minor inside maintenance on the weekends between honey-dos.

LCDRAKAllen · 12-13-2015, 08:45 AM

Thanks all, off to read some of the QT'S and get to work. I like the "catsup" bottle idea, only problem is we use "ketchup"

mel s · 12-13-2015, 09:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KenNJ

I use a good ol kitchen baster. Works perfectly with no mess for me. I have only had to use it twice since purchasing our coach new. I do not find my levels drop fast enough to warrant a watering system.

I use a nasal aspirator.... (aka:"snot sucker"):
Safety 1st Hospital's Choice Newborn Nasal Aspirator - Safety 1st - Babies "R" Us

Mel
'96 Safari, (4 12V deep cycle marine house batteries)

newmarpusher · 12-13-2015, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cenfl

Are there any settings on converter or inverter or anything else that need to be changed when replacing wet cell with AGM batteries?

Yes. You must make sure your charger/converter can handle AGM's. The Magnums in any of the newer Newmar DP's have two settings for AGM's in addition to wet cells. Lifelines use one settings and all other AGM's use the other.

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Algoma · 12-13-2015, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LCDRAKAllen

Okay, so I have a question regarding batteries in my 2015 BayStar 3401, I have 2 12V deep cycle batteries that have a resting charge of 12.3V. I think that I need to add H2O to them, which seems pretty straight forward, I plan to add distilled water to top them off.

I am not sure why you think you have a top-up problem. The voltage indicates your batteries are only half charged which has nothing to do with topping up with water. Have you been keeping an eye on the water level and noticed it has dropped below the plates? I would be more worried that your batteries are not charging properly. After charging at home do they show 12.7 at rest? Do you have a clamp meter so you can check for any current on the battery cables when they are disconnected? It could be the batteries have been neglected and that they actually need replacing.