Replacing Wet Interstates with AGMs in FC27FB

[ZeviB]

Greetings!

We recently took delivery of a new (to us) 2019 FC-27FBT (yay!). I believe that the original Interstates are on the way out, and I want to swap them with AGMs.

Any recommended source/model for the new AGM batteries?

Also, from reading posts here I understand that I should worry about the original Airstream charger? Do I need to replace it? Am I wrong to assume that switching to AGM is a simple "out with the old - in with the new"? Anything else I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance, Zevi.

[Daquenzer]

I had an Interstate dealer near to me and I just went with them when my wet cell Interstates gave out. They were about $100 more per battery. However, I have actually heard some good things about WalMart batteries. So I’d check them out, and do some research. And yes you can just switch them out. I asked the Airstream dealer.

As to which is the best? How much do you want to pay? And then there is the cost/benefit analysis. Also I figure if I have the dealer close to me if something goes wrong I have easy access to any warranty issues.

One thing: When I switched them out the connectors didn’t fit quite right. I had to take them in to get them drilled out a bit. Just a heads up.

[jeffmc306]

ZeviB, congratulations on the new to you FC27FB! We have a 2019 27’ Globetrotter with Lifeline AGM’s from the factory. Our previous FC23FB had flooded acid Interstates that were abused before we got it (new trailer). I didn’t want to deal with flooded batteries so we opted for the solar package and AGMs.

We’re on our third season and love the sealed batteries - no more checking water levels. That said, you are still limited to using 50% of the total capacity to avoid damaging the batteries so be aware of that.

Lifeline is a top tiered AGM battery with good customer service and warranty. You might want to check them out here.

As Daquenzer said, you can drop in the new AGMs without having to change your converter/charger. I’ll post a photo of our original AGM setup in the battery box so you can compare it to yours.

Good luck and welcome to the forum and Airstream Community!

[ZeviB]

Thank you for these helpful replies.
The local lifeline dealer tells me the lead time on orders is 10-12 weeks ()
Any reason I should not get these from the local auto store?

[jeffmc306]

Yes, those are starting batteries. What you want to look for are deep cycle batteries. Shop for any AGM deep cycle batteries and you’ll be fine. Check Costco for example.