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jim1949 · 09-09-2013, 08:27 AM

This winter we're planning to store the Stream in a "self store" facility. The rent includes an AC outlet that I plan on using to keep the batteries (there are 2) charged and not frozen during the cold Wisconsin winter. Questions: 1) do I need to isolate the batteries and use a separate charger for each? and 2) What battery tender do you recommend? Don't really need a high output battery charger, just a 1-2 A trickle charge with multi-stage control.

thanks

cwf · 09-09-2013, 08:35 AM

I like the Battery Tenders. One for each battery.

withidl · 09-09-2013, 10:11 AM

I use a "Schumacher Battery Companion" purchased from Sears several years ago for ~$20 and keep all of my vehicle batteries charged with it. The following data is from it's labeling:

Model SE1562A 6V - 12V
1.5 Amp Slow Charge
Output: 6/12V at 1.5A DC
Fully Automatic Battery Charger / Maintainer with Float Mode Monitoring

I have plugged the coach converter into a power strip which has an on/off switch which I turn off when the Schumacher is charging. I connect the Schumacher positive clamp to the 12 volt breaker box positive bus bar, and the negative clamp to an improvised ground within that same breaker box. The Schumacher AC plug uses an AC outlet within the coach, which is always plugged into AC ground power.

I leave the 12 volt master disconnect switch ON so that I have lights in the coach (which resides in my back yard).

The Schumacher charges both AGM batteries simultaneously, and keeps them totally topped off.

3campers · 09-09-2013, 11:01 AM

I pull mine and keep them hooked up in my garage. I have a Deltran Battery Tender with 2 bank charger system...it has connections for two batteries...works just fine...

http://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tender...battery+tender

ROBERT CROSS · 09-09-2013, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 3campers

I pull mine and keep them hooked up in my garage. I have a Deltran Battery Tender with 2 bank charger system...it has connections for two batteries...works just fine...

Battery Tender 022-0165-DL-WH 12-Volt 2-Bank Battery Management System : Amazon.com : Automotive

I also remove for Winter storage...they go to the "charge room" in the basement.

Bob

polarlyse · 09-09-2013, 01:05 PM

You only need one battery tender. Make a jumper cable that connect the terminals together just like in the trailer and one tender will tend to both batteries at the same time.

Skater · 09-09-2013, 02:30 PM

If you have a 3 stage converter, you can just let that take care of the batteries.

Wayne&Sam · 09-09-2013, 02:38 PM

My Battery Minder came with a short cable that I leave connected to the batteries in the trailer. This cable then plugs into the Battery Minder when in storage. So the batteries are being charged and on float without the Safari's converter plugged in. Works well for me. I'm still on my original 2007 batteries though they are starting to get a little weak. Of course they could fail any day, but I won't worry about it until spring.

lsbrodsky · 09-09-2013, 02:54 PM

A new converter would cost you more than a tender, but is probably a better long term solution. I had a Deltran on my Corvette and the Deltran just failed after 11 months. I have an Xtreme on order. CTEK is well regarded. I do not know what to trust in the RV world, my boat charger/inverter worked fine for decades so I would think a good 3 stage converter is the answer, with your AS plugged in while in storage.
Larry
Larry

ROBERT CROSS · 09-09-2013, 03:01 PM

In my experience batteries do not appreciate being left alone with an unfamiliar, possibly fickle device.

They really need the human attention.

Bob

Protagonist · 09-09-2013, 05:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROBERT CROSS

In my experience batteries do not appreciate being left alone with an unfamiliar, possibly fickle device.

They really need the human attention.

Kind of like infants, eh? Well, at least you don't have to change a battery's diaper!

Wayne&Sam · 09-09-2013, 05:57 PM

I do check on my trailer and charger every couple of weeks.

m.hony · 09-09-2013, 06:06 PM

I don't usually bother on the camper or motorcycle, but I have to on the lawn mower or the battery will only last 2 years.

SteveSueMac · 09-09-2013, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 3campers

I pull mine and keep them hooked up in my garage. I have a Deltran Battery Tender with 2 bank charger system...it has connections for two batteries...works just fine...

Thanks. Ordered mine and should have it soon. I REALLY wish I could find internal storage for the Tin Goat. At least I can have some peace of mind with the batteries. :-)