keigm Report post Posted January 31, 2017 I just replaced my old house AGM 6 volt batteries with 8 Lifeline AGM 6volt batteries. In looking at some blogs I see it has been recommended to make sure the batteries are being charged correctly. I am assuming the SilverLeaf on my Newmar Mountain Aire is set up correctly but am just guessing. I would like to make sure though; what is the correct way to charge an AGM battery? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted January 31, 2017 I am also a fan of Lifeline batteries-- was introduced to them in the 1990's in our sailboats. Your Silverleaf is a MONITORING system-- it does not affect the charging algorithms. Tell us what charger, converter or inverter/charger you have. That is where control of the charging algorithms is done. If a quality smart inverter/charger, you will want to verify that it is properly programmed. Parameters you will be programming are: Battery technology (AGM) Battery bank size (in amp-hrs). If 8 6 VDC 220 amp-hr batteries, that is 880 amp-hrs @ 12 VDC. Ambient temperature (if you don't have an optional battery temperature sensor) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
manholt Report post Posted January 31, 2017 That's what they did with both of my banks last year, also set the discharge % on Inverter...2, 4000 w Magnums. Carl Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
keigm Report post Posted January 31, 2017 The inverter/charger is a Magnum 2800 Watt. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
manholt Report post Posted January 31, 2017 Your coach all electric, no propane? Mine is! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted January 31, 2017 Just make sure it is programmed as I posted above-- it will be outlined in your Magnum Owners Manual. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dons2346 Report post Posted February 1, 2017 On the Magnum, there is the option of picking AGM1 or AGM2. One setting is for the Lifelines and the other is for "other" . Not a lot of difference in them but make sure you pick the setting for Lifeline Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
keigm Report post Posted February 1, 2017 Thanks for your help. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
frenchie Report post Posted February 21, 2017 If you are still not comfortable with your set up, give Lifeline a call. They are very willing to help. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jrock Report post Posted February 21, 2017 I was told by batteries + that the coastguard uses them in their boats because of their reliability Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted February 21, 2017 We use them on our boats for a number of reasons: They can't spill They don't outgas (unless severely overcharged) No sulfuric acid fumes. No maintenance. Lifeline AGM batteries came as standard equipment in our 1995 Pacific Seacraft Crealock 37'. Been using them ever since. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wildebill308 Report post Posted February 22, 2017 Nice boat. Bill Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted February 22, 2017 Thanks, Bill. Have had three of their boats over the decades-- one 34' and two 37's. Somehow work had to sandwich in there somewhere! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wildebill308 Report post Posted February 22, 2017 It's harder to find anchorages with full hookups. Also you tow a real dingy. We are looking forward to seeing some tall ships this summer, and learning about charging AGM batteries. See, staying on subject. http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/tall-ships-rendez-vous-2017-regatta-ports-1.3786613 Bill Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted February 22, 2017 Yup, had an 8' Dyer dingy for years. A hard fiberglass dingy. Easy to row. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
manholt Report post Posted February 22, 2017 Bill, I'll agree on that in the Med. But disagree in the Caribbean, There are so many Islands from Bahamas on down and across, you can always find anchorage, may not be as you say "Full hook up", but then, you don't need is as much as on land...I hardly ever worried about AC, on rare occasions heat, as long as I had fuel, fresh water was not a problem! Brett prefers sail, I prefer power and sail...each it's own. I prefer Cat, last one I had was a Mares, NZ built, 50 foot. Now, I guess I'll have to order from Africa. Dingy? I prefer Rib. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
frenchie Report post Posted February 27, 2017 Folks seems we got off the subject, that said, I understand that these batteries were developed by DOD for stuff that goes under the water AKA submarines. Being from the North it's great that they don't freeze (till about minus 100F) and in effect, don't self discharge . I have 6 ea in my 08 Phaeton. Anybody have any experience on how long they last? I understand the "number of cycles thing" but in real world terms what can we expect as average life? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
manholt Report post Posted February 27, 2017 7 to 9 years. average...your getting above average. Contact Lifeline, they have the most information! We got off OP's direct question, because it was answered , We have had no feed back for almost a month! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites