Community Forums

barmcd · 04-17-2017, 05:50 PM

I ordered four new 6V batteries. Is there anything I need to do other than replace them one at a time so I don't mix up the cables? I assume I should disconnect the shore power cord too.

twinboat · 04-17-2017, 06:12 PM

Take pictures !

Captjake1 · 04-17-2017, 06:46 PM

Yeas, take pictures prior. Then it is a piece of cake! Chocolate even!
You might consider adding a watering system. I like using it, super easy to add water.

barmcd · 04-17-2017, 07:16 PM

I ordered AGM batteries. The coach came with them and I liked the convenience of not having to check water.

Captjake1 · 04-17-2017, 07:51 PM

Even better!!

10Boomer · 04-18-2017, 06:15 AM

I find it easy to mark the cables to batteries as they are installed. Set new batteries the same way next to coach close by so I transfer the labeling using blue tape.
Before removing use blues tape label each post; 1 thru 8 now go back to the cables attached to each post.
If you lay out your new batteries the same it should work.
Pictures, pictures.
I use this tech when I clean my battery trays yearly.

barmcd · 04-18-2017, 06:28 AM

Thanks, I'll definitely take pictures.

YC1 · 04-18-2017, 06:32 AM

As suggested, take plenty of pictures. Print a couple and put them in a sheet protector for reference.

Remove all of the batteries and clean the tray with some baking soda and water. Some spray on bed protector or just paint will extend the life of the area. If it is a slide out tray, this is a good time to lube the bearings.

Check your EMS panel inside once they are replaced. You may need to program it a bit differently. Read the manual of course for guidance.

barmcd · 04-18-2017, 07:19 PM

Big difference! The compartment is in surprisingly good condition--probably because its had AGM batteries in it the last 9 years. Two of the batteries were kinda bloated looking. We don't do a lot of boondocking, but it's nice to know we could spend some time off the grid if we chose to.

Ron Postma · 04-18-2017, 07:33 PM

Be careful thinking a bloated or swollen AGM batteries are bad. Remember these are what is called "Valve Regulated" batteries. During charging the hydrogen and oxygen are kept under pressure until they recombine into water. AGM batteries will swell during charging. It takes time for the recombination to take place. Over charging them at too high of voltage can overcome the pressure valve letting out the gases and drying out the battery.

barmcd · 04-18-2017, 07:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron Postma

Be careful thinking a bloated or swollen AGM batteries are bad. Remember these are what is called "Valve Regulated" batteries. During charging the hydrogen and oxygen are kept under pressure until they recombine into water. AGM batteries will swell during charging. It takes time for the recombination to take place. Over charging them at too high of voltage can overcome the pressure valve letting out the gases and drying out the battery.

Thanks Ron, I didn't know that. I replaced the batteries because they weren't holding a charge after 9 years. Truth be told I don't think I look at them very often.

Ron Postma · 04-18-2017, 08:10 PM

9 years is well past their lifespan. You might consider adding a de-sulfator to your batteries. Check out this site and their products. They say it can triple the lifespan of new batteries. Battery reconditioner desulfator rejuvenator

JohnBoyToo · 04-19-2017, 11:42 AM

AGM's ?!?! good deal

Check to make sure they are the same amp-hrs, etc so you can adjust your charging rate etc... to match

barmcd · 04-20-2017, 07:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnBoyToo

AGM's ?!?! good deal

Check to make sure they are the same amp-hrs, etc so you can adjust your charging rate etc... to match

My RC7 remote doesn't have a lot of options--you have two battery types, Gel and Flooded Wet Cell and the capacity jumps from 100 to 250 to 500 to 1000. I used 1000 since the capacity of the new batteries is closer to 1000 than 500.