Looking to buy an RV and need advice

[Justsomeguy]

The short answer with the 6v vs 12v is that you get a bigger “gas tank” wiring the 6v in series. You’re getting more storage capacity.

I was also told they recover better. They are essentially designed to be drained and charged back up. Not sure if that's true.

 

[hallett21]

I was also told they recover better. They are essentially designed to be drained and charged back up. Not sure if that's true.

Typically that comes from the fact that you’re no longer depleting the battery to 0% every day/night.

 

[BHC Vic]

Ok so for someone like me

Could I buy 4 6v batteries and replace the 2 12’s in there or should I just take it to a professional

 

[wallnutz]

This also brought up a Trojan Odessy interstate Costco debate so let’s hit that too

Add Lifeline to that list. If you plan on keeping this coach for awhile, I would look into Lithium batteries and some solar. If you think you might upgrade in a couple of years I would do 4 6 volt AGM Lifeline batteries. Just make sure you keep any battery fully charged and if they are lead acid make sure you check the water monthly. And yes, you can do it.

 

[Singleton]

Ok this next question I feel is like opening up a can of worms but whatever let’s do it. I have 2 12 volt batteries. I would basically have to get them full charge and then kind of watch what we did if I wanted the heater to run all night. Otherwise batteries would die and heater wouldn’t work because thermostat didn’t have juice to send to the furnace. Anyways I was told we’ll replace you batteries it’s probably time for new ones. I haven’t even looked yet but then that brought up 12v is trash you need 4 6v in series. Now I’ve heard this debate before but never really cared because it didn’t apply to me. Well now it does. I’m still tossing around the idea of an inverter but believe it or not I actually think we would be just fine without one. I didn’t mind running the generator for the kids to watch tv and if I’m plugged in same deal. But I do plan on dry camping and do want the best battery set up. So let’s hear your thoughts

4 6v will last longer then 2 12v
Battery tech has gone a long way. Deep cycles are the lowest level now. Better tech is available.

Once thing to consider, if you step up from deep cycle batteries, you enter new charged etc into the equation

 

[Justsomeguy]

Ok so for someone like me View attachment 1466768
Could I buy 4 6v batteries and replace the 2 12’s in there or should I just take it to a professional

Lol I did mine.

Typically that comes from the fact that you’re no longer depleting the battery to 0% every day/night.

That makes sense also. I was told because they are technically golf cart batteries they are used to the deep cycle draining. Wtf do I know. I just listen and try to keep up and not f up.

 

[BHC Vic]

So that actually really made me think. To be honest I really like this coach. I could see myself keeping it for a good while. However that being said I really really like camping and my wife was pretty into it too so I could see upgrading also. But probably not for at least 5 years. I just don’t have the finances to do EVERYTHING I want. I would like to have the rzr by our march trip but it would be bitchin to have an enclosed too

 

[hallett21]

Ok so for someone like me View attachment 1466768
Could I buy 4 6v batteries and replace the 2 12’s in there or should I just take it to a professional

Yes…… need to know what charger you have.

If I were you I’d layout what your honest electrical future looks like and design the system for that. Batteries, chargers, inverters etc can get expensive if you keep changing components to conquer the “next” issue.

 

[Justsomeguy]

Yes…… need to know what charger you have.

If I were you I’d layout what your honest electrical future looks like and design the system for that. Batteries, chargers, inverters etc can get expensive if you keep changing components to conquer the “next” issue.

Ahhhh so i need a different charger. This makes sense. I was wondering why it was going wonky. But again only at full charge does it start looking like it's having a seizure. See I just listen and try not to f up. The people that told me 6v don't have solar chargers in those old weekend warriors. Lol

 

[hallett21]

Lol I did mine.

That makes sense also. I was told because they are technically golf cart batteries they are used to the deep cycle draining. Wtf do I know. I just listen and try to keep up and not f up.

lol there seems to always be a lot of mystery and unicorn dust on these topics (electrical in general). I’m not a die hard RV guy but there’s only so many specs a battery can have.

Amp Hours (capacity)
Voltage
Physical make up (AGM, Lead Acid etc)
Deep cycle vs Starter
Cold Cranking Amps


At the end of the day you’re manipulating the above to get the most wattage you can in a given space. I just chuckle when (not directed at you) guys just blindly say 12 volts suck and 6 volts are awesome. Without being able to explain why lol.

With that logic 24v must really be a pile

 

[Justsomeguy]

lol there seems to always be a lot of mystery and unicorn dust on these topics (electrical in general). I’m not a die hard RV guy but there’s only so many specs a battery can have.

Amp Hours (capacity)
Voltage
Physical make up (AGM, Lead Acid etc)
Deep cycle vs Starter
Cold Cranking Amps


At the end of the day you’re manipulating the above to get the most wattage you can in a given space. I just chuckle when (not directed at you) guys just blindly say 12 volts suck and 6 volts are awesome. Without being able to explain why lol.

With that logic 24v must really be a pile

I looked it up it says 6 to 15 volts on the charger.

It's the ah capacity of both as I understand it. As you said, a bigger storage bank. You're still running 12v technically.

 

[Badchoices03]

For what is worth, on my trailer I have (2) deep cycle Interstates with (1) 190w solar panel....I have camped in Ocotillo for 6 days and never really had to worry about the batteries...yes I have to run the generator and be mindful....but never really a big problem....at the most I really want to do is add a second solar panel...

 

[BHC Vic]

For what is worth, on my trailer I have (2) deep cycle Interstates with (1) 190w solar panel....I have camped in Ocotillo for 6 days and never really had to worry about the batteries...yes I have to run the generator and be mindful....but never really a big problem....at the most I really want to do is add a second solar panel...

That’s kind of how I feel about it. It’s not really a problem and had I done a better job monitoring I would have been ok. But if I can make it better for not too much extra cost I might as well

 

[Badchoices03]

That’s kind of how I feel about it. It’s not really a problem and had I done a better job monitoring I would have been ok. But if I can make it better for not too much extra cost I might as well

Yeah and get the wife and kids to be mindful as well, if we are all outside at night, there is no reason for any of the trailer lights to be on and things like that....having plenty of battery life would be great, dont get me wrong....but not if there are other things that need tending to....

 

[trophybug19]

lithium with solar in RV setup

I have been doing research for converting my house batteries to lithium in my 2005 bounder. I now know it is not as easy as switching over batteries. I was wondering if anyone has done this in a Fleetwood or if anyone could look over what I am thinking I will need to accomplish what I want to...

www.riverdavesplace.com

Here is my thread on my jorney of switching my RV to lithium. I need to update it but the gist of it, to switch to lithium you need to install a lithium specific battery converter for proper charging of batteries when plugged in (not to be confused with an inverter). A dc to dc charger if you want to charge your house batteries while driving, plus you need to make sure that you isolate your lithium batteries away from the alternator or else you run the risk of burning up your alternator. This could be done multiple ways and really could be it's own thread. If you want to go with solar too than make sure you get a solar controller with dc to dc built in.

Lots to process there are short cuts and I'll try to update my thread with what I have gone with so far. But short answer is 230ah lithium battery, (it fit in the same spot as my 2 6v batteries) I isolated the lithium from my alternator charging it by pulling a fuse from my BCC (battery control center). Using stock convertor and using solar to top off the batteries. Worked great on hour 12day glamis trip never dipped below 40%. But am going to do some other upgrades to make it better. Just been too busy.

 

[Bowtiepower00]

Ok so for someone like me View attachment 1466768
Could I buy 4 6v batteries and replace the 2 12’s in there or should I just take it to a professional

If you are going to spend the money on 4 6v batteries, make the jump to lithium and be done with it. Buy once, cry once. This will probably end up requiring an inverter/ charger purchase and install- but if you are adding an inverter anyway it’s not a large difference in price to step up to a nicer unit that can handle lithium and future upgrades. If you watch the sales you can find some deals, especially around Black Friday.

My advice is to take a step back and enjoy everything as is for 6 months to a year before doing any major upgrades or purchases. Get your camping routine dialed in and develop a better idea of what you want to end up with as far as RV upgrades/ enclosed trailer/ sxs/ etc. Be patient and end up with what you want- you’re going to end up spending another 30-50k, buy stuff that you’re not going to outgrow or end up replacing in a season or two- even if it means waiting and saving longer. Been there, done that.

It’s easy for those of us who have been doing this awhile to spend your money, you don’t need solar, lithium, a Pro R, and an enclosed with extra water and fuel storage- but if that is where you ultimately see yourself ending up in a few seasons don’t halfass it and end up redoing it all in a year or two because you’re not happy with your setup.

 

[bilz]

5 days in glamis with 2 6v costco batteries and 320 w solar blankets. Only ran the genny once for 1.5 hour to charge the neighbor kids quad and 15 min to heat a chorizo burrito due to a hangover. I will go 230 ah lithium when the 6vs die. I need to learn this isolating the alternator concept.

 

[Singleton]

That’s kind of how I feel about it. It’s not really a problem and had I done a better job monitoring I would have been ok. But if I can make it better for not too much extra cost I might as well

Flip to 2 6V deep cycle, maintenance free over the two 12v setup.
Batteries will last longer and no need to replace charger in RV.

If you think you will keep RV for 6-8 years, after year 1 of using it, you can plan a power mgmt upgrade. Solar, batteries, inverter, etc. It is a 12-16k investment.

A past member paul65k started the following Company, https://adventuresolar.pro

 

[Bowtiepower00]

You can buy a 200ah battery for under $500, same with a 3000 watt inverter charger. Figure $1000 for solar, there’s $2000 plus install. More can be spent, for sure- but you don’t need to spend 10k.

 

[Badchoices03]

Oh yeah I forgot this is RDP, you need to change everything out, batteries, charger, inverter, everything…lol..

 

[Boatymcboatface]

What’s wrong with running the generator? We use ours all the time during the day cost us $0 to upgrade it. The thing sips gas so don’t see much cost in that?

 

[BHC Vic]

What’s wrong with running the generator? We use ours all the time during the day cost us $0 to upgrade it. The thing sips gas so don’t see much cost in that?

How many hours do they typically go for?

 

[Done-it-again]

Here you go This has all you need if you want to add solar. I had a similar set up in my toyhauler (came with it) with 4 agm batteries and would run the home style refrigerator, tv’s, furnace, no problem.

Solar Elite Charging System (400 watts)

Ideal for weekend warriors, our complete Solar Elite system includes all components and hardware to charge from both shore and solar power. Learn more here.

gopowersolar.com

 

[DoughBallin14]

How many hours do they typically go for?

I have personally seen 2 or 3 onan 5500s have over 4k hours on them without a hiccup. All about maintenance and good fuel.
I think the actual service life is around 10k hours

 

[Boatymcboatface]

How many hours do they typically go for?

I don’t know but we don’t even have a 1000 hours on ours after owning it for 9 years.

 

[Meaney77]

A couple of things as I quickly read through everyone's responses....

• If your current 2 12 V batteries are in the step at the entry door, I dont think you have enough space in that area for 4x6V batteries. If you have the room, you may need to fabricate some brackets to tie them down.
• Converting to to 6V is super easy.
• Costco/Interstate batteries are descent (there are better brands out there for more $$$), and you will get a few seasons out of them but only have a 6-month warranty. I only mention it because lots of people think you can swap them out and replace them under warranty and you can but the warranty period isnt very long.
• If you convert to 6V, I would buy this kit to keep batteries topped off with water. All batteries use water and is the quickest way to kill its lifecycle if you don't keep up with it. https://a.co/d/hxvtlzq
• I have 3 girls, and I am constantly reminding them all of the time about turning the lights and TV off when we are camping, but they still forget. Their devices (phones, tablets, watches, etc.) are also plugged in, and all of this burns through the batteries. It may be worthwhile to look at a small generator like a Honda EU2000, or Harbor Freight 2000/3500. For the amount of money you may spend on solar upgrades, it may be the same price as a portable genny. The small gennys are great, cheap to run and cheap to maintain.I hate to say it, but there have been trips where I use more gas in my generator than in our off-road car. Buy a long 50amp extension cord and plant the generator in the bushes away from everyone and let the thing rip all night.
• If you dont want to spend a bunch of money, you can also find used ones on the cheap on FB Marketplace.
• RV Message boards- Like RDP there is a ton of message boards out there with a ton of info. Some of those old blue hairs know their stuff and what they are talking about.

 

[BHC Vic]

Yup 2 12v right in the stairs, and I remember it being pretty tight

 

[Ducksquasher]

They have a couple inches when the coach is completely level let me try to find a pic. View attachment 1466745

That is about how mine is...you shouldn't need to use your jacks until you are in your spot and leveling out to stay.

 

[BHC Vic]

That is about how mine is...you shouldn't need to use your jacks until you are in your spot and leveling out to stay.

Mine hit at the sloped mobile station when getting gas, and at the dirt stripped in the v angled bays. The drain is in the center

 

[c_land]

Yup i think that’s the ticket

I have a 2 step and need a 3 step...... wanna trade?

 

[Singleton]

Mine hit at the sloped mobile station when getting gas, and at the dirt stripped in the v angled bays. The drain is in the center

Switch to two steps, or see if you can change the bars on the lower step so they don’t drop as far.

 

[BHC Vic]

Do you guys use the surge protector with the generator?

 

[Singleton]

Do you guys use the surge protector with the generator?

I have a built in generator so NO.
If using the little Honda 2k, yes

 

[BHC Vic]

I have a generac guardian on board and then a wen portable

 

[bilz]

Amazon.com

I use two of these, moved them as need be. One is 3 years old and one i about a year. Cheap but pretty durable. Portable so I can take one or both and charge my eco flo battery box.
My old age can't stand to hear generators running, even mine

 

[mjc]

If you have time you might want to come out to the Quartzite RV show. It starts next weekend 18-26. Free and some good RV stuff there and also standard show stuff. Also lots of free boondocking and off roading.

 

[BHC Vic]

If you have time you might want to come out to the Quartzite RV show. It starts next weekend 18-26. Free and some good RV stuff there and also standard show stuff. Also lots of free boondocking and off roading.

Thanks I’m going to check that out

 

[Singleton]

Thanks I’m going to check that out

It a solid show. Some good vendors as well.
Buddy had his BlueOx flat tow for Jeep rebuilt one year and also got new shoes for the RV during the same trip.

 

[mjc]

Thanks I’m going to check that out

well hopefully see you there. we will be camped 95s just past the LTVA area on west side.

 

[Done-it-again]

well hopefully see you there. we will be camped 95s just past the LTVA area on west side.

What areas are there to camp? I might want to check it out this year too.

 

[mjc]

What areas are there to camp? I might want to check it out this year too.

There is so much LTVA area it is ridiculous. We go just south of La Posa LTVA area, near where the gas line goes through. Get a map if you have never been there go much open desert.

 

[Done-it-again]

There is so much LTVA area it is ridiculous. We go just south of La Posa LTVA area, near where the gas line goes through. Get a map if you have never been there go much open desert.

So it’s open desert camping? I’ve heard it’s a good place to get some rv work done. Wasn’t sure if there was a designated area for the work.

 

[mjc]

So it’s open desert camping? I’ve heard it’s a good place to get some rv work done. Wasn’t sure if there was a designated area for the work.

There are people at the show that do work but are probably already fully scheduled. I have thought about doing my foggy windows but they booked up a long time ago.

 

[Done-it-again]

There are people at the show that do work but are probably already fully scheduled. I have thought about doing my foggy windows but they booked up a long time ago.

I have 1 and another one starting. There is a place in Ontario that does them and I might have them do it. If they repair your current ones it’s 7-10 turnaround so you have a tapped up window for that time.

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[CLdrinker]

Of all my time camping I have never needed more than 2 6V and a portable 2500 generator.

No need to be complicated.

 

[DarkHorseRacing]

For this RV generator discussion, if you want to run a portable generator while keeping it quiet, look at investing in a Zombie Box. Really cuts down the noise.

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[Ducksquasher]

It a solid show. Some good vendors as well.
Buddy had his BlueOx flat tow for Jeep rebuilt one year and also got new shoes for the RV during the same trip.

So the last few years we have wanted to vo...figured camp somewhere for the weekend (Blythe, Quartzsite, etc.) and drive over for the day. Can't camp this weekend but thinking maybe making a day trip...live in IE so drive is like a turnaround from Vegas. Mainly would go for the vendor tent and see what kind of goodies are available, etc. and a quick road trip. Is it worth the drive?

Thanks!