Community Forums

Dave33 · 09-07-2015, 05:03 PM

Hello all. I just signed up and am the happy owner of a 1996 Beaver Monterey 3605. I'm watching a lot of how to videos and am learning everyday.

Something I have a question about is the towing capacity. Looking at the ID plate there is no GVWR rating. In doing some reading it looks like rule of thumb is around 5000 Lbs. Can anyone shed any light on this?

One other question is about the batteries. It has 2 chassis and 4 house batteries. I will be storing this inside for the winter and should I remove the batteries and place on a trickle charge? I believe I will need a special charger for the deep cell batteries.

Thank you everyone in advance.

Skip426 · 09-07-2015, 05:36 PM

If the weight sheet lists the coach GVWR , ( Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and the GCWR, ( Gross Combined Weight Rating ) The difference between the two will be your tow weight rating.

If you storing the coach inside , do you have access to a plug in ?
Check to make sure the coach charges all batteries when plugged in.

If so you could plug the coach into even a 15 amp; provided the convertor is the only power draw; circuit and the onboard charger will keep the batteries up, you could even put a timer on and only have the coach powered up every 3rd or 4th day. If no power available then removing batteries would be best; and I've never used a special charger for a deep cycle battery, but mine is a progressive 10/5/2 amp charger not a trickle.

Dave33 · 09-07-2015, 06:43 PM

I did find a plate with the date of manufacture, model, etc but it doesn't have the GVWR listed.

The house batteries only charge when plugged in. The chassis batteries are supposed to recharge via the engine or solar panels on the roof but I'm betting this doesn't work. I should be able to plug in when stored and will remove the 2 house batteries and place them on a trickle charge.

Bruce C · 09-08-2015, 02:09 AM

the_vfox · 09-08-2015, 02:15 AM

Welcome and have fun here!

CaptainGeezer · 09-08-2015, 02:42 AM

Welcome aboard!

MSHappyCampers · 09-08-2015, 08:21 AM

Hi Dave! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

Congrats on the new rig! Keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

HRvindeb · 09-08-2015, 08:29 AM

Congrats on the new rig!

Welcome to the world of rv'ing . Much to learn for sure. Alot of experience in this forum.

Safe and enjoyable travels to you.