Quote:
Originally Posted by ARC
Hi All,
I'm new to but excited about RVing. The 2003 F/T 31W coach batteries were dead - 9.5 V - when I bought it some 3 months ago. Both 6V U2200 units were dry. Has anyone tried to resurrect deep cycle batteries with Epsom salt?
Thanks!
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IMHO,
remove the batteries, (Very important, take a few good photos before you disconnect for reference on the instal) clean the battery tray using a Baking Soda/Water solution. If there are areas that have corroded or rusted over the years, sand and paint.
Now, clean all cable ends by dipping them in Baking Soda/Water solution and use a wire brush to shine em up. If they are all in good condition, bonus. If there are any that show wear from corrosion, replace as required.
OK, now you are ready to install your New Deep Cycle 6 Volt Batteries. Take a close look at the photos you took earlier and go for it. Always connect the Positive Cable first and then the Negatives. That way you reduce the risk of a short from the Wrench to Ground. Safety First.
While installing the connections, smear some Dielectric Grease on before you install each one. This prevents corrosion from forming. Dielectric Grease can be purchased from the same place you get the batteries.
Now, here is the trick to do so you don't have to go through this but once every Ten Years. Although by this time you are totally enamoured with the whole procedure Right?
After the Electrolyte level drops due to the normal charging cycle, (this could take a month or more depending on the charge rate from your Converter which by the way, should be No More than 13.7 Volts) instead of topping off with the usual Distilled Water, add 4 Oz, of Mineral Oil to each cell and top off with Distilled Water to the proper level if required. Do Not! draw off Electrolyte to make room for the oil! This needs to occur on its own so you do not upset the Chemical Ratio of the Electrolyte which will alter the life of your batteries.
Mineral Oil can be had in the Pharmacy at Wallyworld or most any Drug Store.
By adding the Mineral Oil, you are preventing the Hydrogen Sulfide from escaping (known as Gassing Off) during the normal charge cycle and thus preventing corrosion to form around the cable connections keeping the battery area clean. You also won't need to add water on a regular basis allowing for more Happy Hour Time.
Hope this helps. A set of batteries will cost you about $400 and if you install them properly, you will not have to worry about doing again for the next Ten Years.
Happy Trails and enjoy RVing.
Welcome and glad to meet you!
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