Chassis Batteries

[patbren]

When on shore power my chassis batteries go dead.

I have all new ones.

Can someone help?

[wolfe10]

Patbren,

Welcome to the FMCA Forum.

Many coach makers do NOT make arrangements to charge the chassis batteries from shore power/generator.

Two different solutions-- either of which is a good solution.

Install a separate small smart charger hardwired to the chassis batteries. Here is an example: http://www.batteryminders.com/categories/applications/motorhome-rv.html

Install a "smart relay" such as a Xantrex Echo Charger http://www.xantrex.com/power-products/power-accessories/auxiliary-battery-charger.aspx that takes charge from the house bank (being charged by your converter or inverter/charger) to charge the chassis batteries.

[CarlAda]

Brett: I've been told that my 2008 Jayco Seneca was designed to charge both chassis and house batteries, but is there a way to confirm that easily?

[wolfe10]

Carl,

Yes, very easy.

Unplug for a couple of hours (no shore power or generator-- or turn off breaker to converter, charger or inverter/charger). Turn on headlights or other chassis battery supplied load for half an hour.

Then turn off load and, with a digital voltmeter, check voltage at HOUSE and also at CHASSIS battery banks.

Plug in or turn on power to converter, charger or inverter/charger.

Recheck voltage at each battery bank.

With the headlights or other load on the chassis battery, before plugging in, voltage should be in the 12.4-12.6 VDC range. If the chassis battery is being charged, after you plug back in/turn on breaker, voltage should rise to 13.5-14 VDC IF, repeat IF the chassis battery is being charged.

If it stays in that 12.4-12.6 VDC range, it is not being charged.