Why do I keep murdering start batteries?

[rv_safetyman]

Brian, I am so glad that you have decided to go to Arcadia.  We went a three times and it was always great fun - wish we could make the finale.  Sounds like you are getting your act together.

I debated hijacking this thread or going back to the other thread, but one item you will need to consider is tire chains.  There are a couple of threads on this.  This is the one I started:

http://www.busconversions.com/bbs/index.php?topic=14421.0 

If you have them you will not need them (hopefully).  Chains will cost less than a $100 and are just plain good insurance.  This is especially true since you are on a tight schedule and won't have the luxury of parking for a few days to wait it out.

Jim

[Ace]

I agree, new batteries just puts you back to square one. Just a band-aid so to speak. What you REALLY need to do is learn how to maintain your batteries for those very long dry spells where your not running it.
I was only implying on how to help you get new batteries replaced since you stated earlier your funds were tight.
Personally I dont think you need a cut off switch. Simply adding a float charger and making it a habit of plugging it in when parked is the ONLY thing you need to do. If the mfgr thought it needed the switch, one would have been there. They DID NOT intend for the bus to be sitting long periods!
Remenber, myself and a lot others have already been where your just entering!

[NewbeeMC9]

Belfert,

I use something like this

http://www.electus.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=5937&CATID=23&keywords=&SPECIAL=&form=CAT&SUBCATID=

on the  12v and the 24v lines of my equalizer; protection and disconnect.  the instructions said to do that also.

I have seen them at otter zone and car stereo places.  I also added a switch for the 12 v loads.

The equalizer also has a load for it to operate.

good luck

[stevet903]

Brian - just as another data point for you, Prevost XLs use a Cole Hersee 2484-16 to disconnect the 12V system.

http://www.colehersee.com/pdf/master_cat/t_battery.PDF

There is a 6 gauge wire from the 12V  section on the battery to one side of the switch, then all of the 12V loads are fed from the other side.  They also wire the Vanner to the load side of the switches, so that it is cut off when the switches are off.  Let me know if you want a wiring diagram or pictures  for an XL so that you can get some ideas.

Steve

[belfert]

I have a Battery Tender Plus 24 volt version already.  It it permanently tied into my batteries.  What I do not have is a permanent outlet for it.  Right now I run an extension cord into the battery compartment to power the charger.  The Battery Tender is a three stage charger so it doesn't overcharge them.  This past winter it kept the batteries up.

I forgot to plug in the charger right away when I got back from my trip, but I still don't think it should have flattened the batteries so quickly.