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Old 02-14-2018, 09:38 AM   #1
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2015 Interstate Ext. Coach
Columbus , Ohio
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Access to my battery box

How do I get access to my battery box?

As an alternative to putting more panels on the roof and adding a MPPT controller, I am considering instead to adding a portable solar unit to my 2015 AI extended lounge.

If I do that, I need to get to my battery box to wire in a quick connect adapter that will then connect to the panels.

Since the battery is located under our rear seat/bed, what is the best way to access that area?

Thanks
Mark
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Old 02-14-2018, 10:51 AM   #2
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The battery box is accessible from the rear of the coach on the right side, under the couch if a Lounge model. Not sure of the access if you have a twin model.

The back of my box was covered in Velcroed fuzzy black material that easily pulled off. There are 4 Phillips screws, 2 top and 2 bottom. The batteries sit in a plastic tray that can be partially pulled out to reach the rear battery terminals. In order to reach the front battery terminals, you have to disconnect the rear battery and then pull the plastic tray further out.

The screws are a bit hard to get back in because of the awkward location. It is hard to hold the plate with one hand and line up the screw holes.
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Old 02-14-2018, 10:56 AM   #3
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By the way, I installed a marine trolling motor plug for my 12v air compressor that pulls more amps than a cigarette-lighter plug is rated for. The trolling motor outlet is wired with #12 and would be perfect for your solar inputs. The plug has 3 pins (one dummy) and can only be inserted one way.
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Old 02-14-2018, 04:28 PM   #4
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Thanks John for both of your replies!
Right now I'm leaning to go with adding a portable solar panel and will wire a harness into my battery box to accommodate the panels!
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Old 02-16-2018, 08:27 AM   #5
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I just installed a Blue Sky 3000i. MPPT controller that I am very pleased with
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Old 02-16-2018, 08:45 AM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GatorDave View Post
I just installed a Blue Sky 3000i. MPPT controller that I am very pleased with
I have the same controller and it works great. I like the alternating battery voltage and input amperage displays.
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Old 02-16-2018, 09:40 AM   #7
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Since I'm going to add a portable unit to charge my batteries and avoid the atkensen controller in our AI, I don't see a need ($) to up grade to an MPPT.
Am I off base/ missing something?
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