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chboone · 01-29-2016, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmw188

I would like something that I could set up in the window during the winter. I didn't see a dimension on that one on the link? I don't know anything about solar chargers. So your saying then that when you get up over 15 watt you need a controller? I have a small panel I bought at a garage sale and it appears to be new but I think the last time I checked it, it was putting out around 20-24 v so what is a safe size for a maintainer and can you just plug into a 12v socket? I think the socket would be on the chassis battery not sure w/o checking?

Solar panels will always read higher when not connected to any load, called Open Circuit Volts. The panel you have is probably 15 watts or 1.25 amps. You may not get full output from it depending how well the sunlight hits it. To test it check the battery voltage then plug in the panel and check the voltage about a week later to see if the charge is being maintained. I would think the 12V socket is on the chassis battery.

garyvont · 02-07-2016, 09:29 PM

Camero, I second IFD's response. On our 2007 Dolphin there is a constant drain from both the engine battery and the house batteries. I tried disconnecting the ground cables, but discovered safety sensors that were still on. I assume they are self grounded somehow. Leaving it constantly plugged in has been a repeated suggestion to me, however, the house batteries will cook off a small amount of water, so I check them every two weeks, and add a little water if needed. I've also been told - though I have no idea if it's correct - that leaving your RV plugged in and your main switch on, will lengthen the life of all the electrical components in the RV. Had intended to install dial-type battery disconnect switches on the positive terminals of both the engine and house batteries, but leaving it plugged in is working well for me, so far.

Fred and Bonnie · 02-12-2016, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmw188

I would like something that I could set up in the window during the winter. I didn't see a dimension on that one on the link? I don't know anything about solar chargers. So your saying then that when you get up over 15 watt you need a controller? I have a small panel I bought at a garage sale and it appears to be new but I think the last time I checked it, it was putting out around 20-24 v so what is a safe size for a maintainer and can you just plug into a 12v socket? I think the socket would be on the chassis battery not sure w/o checking? iPad using iRV2 - RV Forum

I use a 5W for the chassis, 15W for the house batteries, purchased from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

Amazon.com: Battery Tender 15 Watt Solar Charger - 12 Volt/--: Automotive

I place them facing the afternoon sun, hooked directly to each battery bank, both sets of batteries are maintained at 12.7V

BTW, I also use a knife blade disconnect on the chassis battery.

Fred

tmw188 · 02-12-2016, 04:48 PM

Hi Fred how long have you been using these?

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tmw188 · 02-12-2016, 05:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fred and Bonnie

I use a 5W for the chassis, 15W for the house batteries, purchased from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...=sr_1_1&sr=8-1

Amazon.com: Battery Tender 15 Watt Solar Charger - 12 Volt/--: Automotive

I place them facing the afternoon sun, hooked directly to each battery bank, both sets of batteries are maintained at 12.7V

BTW, I also use a knife blade disconnect on the chassis battery.

Fred

Will the larger unit handle the two 6v house and the one 12v chassis if wired in parallel?

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jpm777 · 02-12-2016, 05:43 PM

Also make sure you turn the video switcher off (it does not lose power when the coach power is off) and the inverter is turned off. Both of those will draw power.

tmw188 · 02-12-2016, 05:56 PM

Doesn't the house switch by the steps turn most things off, or is it just a main switch for any light fixtures you may have left on in and around the coach?

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jpm777 · 02-12-2016, 06:07 PM

I found on mine that the master coach switch does not shut off the video switcher box and is 12v powered.

tmw188 · 02-28-2016, 06:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm777

I found on mine that the master coach switch does not shut off the video switcher box and is 12v powered.

The video switcher?

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jpm777 · 02-29-2016, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmw188

The video switcher?

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Yes, the video switcher. All that and the old TV are coming out and upgraded when I get back from my trip.

tmw188 · 02-29-2016, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm777

Yes, the video switcher. All that and the old TV are coming out and upgraded when I get back from my trip.

I removed the old RCA from the bedroom it was on the slide and it weighed a true 58#
The TV switcher as t you call it I'll have to look for that.

jpm777 · 02-29-2016, 11:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmw188

I removed the old RCA from the bedroom it was on the slide and it weighed a true 58#
The TV switcher as t you call it I'll have to look for that.

The video switcher is the box that has all the buttons that you push to select what signal to what TV (sat, ant, vcr to front and rear tv). On the Nationals its usually on the top shelf on the right of the front TV.

Mr_D · 02-29-2016, 11:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm777

The video switcher is the box that has all the buttons that you push to select what signal to what TV (sat, ant, vcr to front and rear tv). On the Nationals its usually on the top shelf on the right of the front TV.

Also called a BOMB (Box Of Many Buttons).

tmw188 · 03-01-2016, 04:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpm777

The video switcher is the box that has all the buttons that you push to select what signal to what TV (sat, ant, vcr to front and rear tv). On the Nationals its usually on the top shelf on the right of the front TV.

I haven't spent much of any time looking in that compartment but will soon because on our return trip home from our purchase in Jan. the FM receiver fell out while driving w/o warning and wife just happened to catch it fortunately before it took out her knees or the dashboard! It was hanging by the wires and I couldn't pull over in rush hr. traffic on the highway.

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