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Rocky 2 · 03-11-2006, 06:54 AM

Second try on this tread. I talked with a second Fleetwood dealer about adding the batteries. They gave me a two hour installation estimate. I asked if they had ever done one on a new Southwind and of course they had not. At $90 an hour, I didn't want them learning on my time.

I asked Fleetwood what the weight carrying capacity of the hatch aft of side door was. They did not give me an answer, just they do not sanction any modifications to their coach. I looked under the hatch and there can be good supports on two sides only.

So, has anyone with a newer Southwind 32VS installed two or four more batteries?

"007" · 03-11-2006, 09:17 PM

Rocky, go to "FIND" above type in adding batterys tons of reading for any type coach. Some people have added angle iron frames under chassis to hold additional batts. WEIGHT of batts shouldn't cause a problem on your MH.

"007"

Rocky 2 · 03-13-2006, 05:30 AM

You are right about the number of threads regarding batteries. I've read scores of them. I was hoping that someone who had actually installed the extra batteries in a coach like mine would respond so that I could avoid design mistakes on where to cut and weld a new tray.

ajbjrvers · 03-13-2006, 09:46 AM

To Rocky 2;

I don't have a rig like yours, but I have a 3,000 watt pro-sine inverter, added a 200 amp alternator, 3 120 watt solar panels, and added 4 6 volt batteries to the 4 that came with rig.

Locate, if possible, any added batteries as close as possible to present batteries using vented battery boxes if you have to install them in a closed bay, NEED VENTING. Use 3/0 or 4/0 welding cable for all connections. Also install inverter as close to batteries as possible, separate compartment which has to have maybe added ventilation, inverter/chargers do generate heat!!

Also ,if affordable, get at least a 2,000 watt inverter/charger.

I have my front a/c and refrige connected to inverter and seldom use propane for frige and run the a/c without genset when on the road and dash air not enough.

If you're going to keep rig awhile, look into a higher amp alternator and adding solar panels.

Spartan was able to fit 200 amp on same bracket the 160 amp was, maybe your's set up that way..

Having all of the above,while they do costs $$$ , makes your traveling a lot more independent and quieter because you don't have to use genset as often, just on gloomy days . Hope someone responds that has same type rig as you because the additions do make sense.

Hope this info useful== Thanks ==Aime== AJBJRVERS