Optima Batteries Dead - '03 Classic

Barkingspider · 04-13-2006, 01:28 PM

Went out to check on the trailer and my batteries are dead. Interesting thing is these were brand new blue top optimas that are no more than 6 months old - two of them. Additionally I had flipped the switch on the 12 volt panel before storing the trailer so no current should of been drawn from the batteries. Obviously current is still being pulled from somewhere but what could it be? Is there anything that attaches to the 12 volt system prior to the patch panel where the battery cables are routed? Thanks, Joe

vajeep · 04-13-2006, 01:59 PM

Joe,
I have a new blue top Optima. Our Overlander only has one battery. I have a propane detector as well as a CO detector. I also have X-M radio with a built in clock.
I do not have a battery switch only a battery quick disconnect in the battery box. If I leave the battery plugged in these three small items will drain my Optima at about 20%every 3-4 days.
Maybe you have the Propane/CO detectors as well??

Abe

Porky Pig · 04-13-2006, 02:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barkingspider

Obviously current is still being pulled from somewhere but what could it be? Is there anything that attaches to the 12 volt system prior to the patch panel where the battery cables are routed? Thanks, Joe

I believe it is the LP detector. Look for a red wire down there behind the switch.

Silvertwinkie · 04-13-2006, 02:43 PM

They are right on, there are current draws even if the bypass is engaged.

Pork is right on also about the LP detector....it runs regardlss if the bypass is on or off.

One thing that I found that if the batteries go dead and the bypass is activated, I couldn't just plug in the coach to shore power and turn the bypass off. I had to connect a charger to the batteries to change the bypass setting.

ZoominC6 · 04-13-2006, 03:13 PM

Joe,
I just discoverd I had the same problem! We went to the covered storage facility to retrieve a few items we forgot from our last trip and found both new blue tops dead as a hammer. I had shut off the breakers and the main shunt switch but to no avail. I will be adding disconnects to each battery like Abe did and see what happens.

vajeep · 04-13-2006, 04:10 PM

Dick,
My if I don't want to mess with the battery box, I just turn all my coach power switches to off. This kills the radio clock and both detectors. I bet you forgot your Jeff Gordon jacket...

Abe

**jcanavera** · 04-13-2006, 04:44 PM

I've never checked the Classic, but my '01 Safari pulled .01 amp when the master disconnect was in the off position (propane detector). .1 amp when the master disconnect was in the on position. Do the amp hour calculation on your batteries and you will be able to get an idea of how the idle power draw takes those batteries down over time.

Jack