Switching to group 27

[Zugbug]

I have a 2006 23' and would like to switch from the group 24 batteries that came with the unit to group 27. Has anyone done this and how did you modify the battery box?

[thecatsandi]

Originally Posted by Zugbug

I have a 2006 23' and would like to switch from the group 24 batteries that came with the unit to group 27. Has anyone done this and how did you modify the battery box?

Several have done this sucessfully. Have you tried searching the threads?

[Zugbug]

Yes I have look through some of the posts, but I haven't found anything on having to modify the battery box. There was one thread that stated there are some group 27's that will fit into the existing box anyone know which models those are?

[Silvertwinkie]

It's not so much in modifying the batter box, the tray that is in the box will only fit a 24. IIRC, you simply have to remove the tray at the bottom and the 27s will fit with a bit of finesse*.

*provided your battery box is the same as the one on my 2004

[airdreamers]

Don't forget that the battery boxes are sealed and vents to the outside. If you are using wet cell batteries any disturbance to the box allowing the batteries to vent inside will result in fumes being let into the living compartment, NG. Airstream may have replacement boxes to accomodate the larger size of battery.

Hope this is of some help.

[2airishuman]

23 safari has the wet cells OUTSIDE on the tongue...

many threads on the variety of tweaks,

here are just a few...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...7-a-46804.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...lts-64324.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...ing-64137.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...2-a-31854.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...ity-38012.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...rum-47378.html

each type of tweak is battery dimension AND box/A frame dimension specific.

seems part of the reason for the 2x6v switch is ONLY the height (lid) changes..

while 24 to 27 involves L times W issues.

get the measurements and dimensions and space restrictions...

and start doodling.

cheers
2air'

[Ahab]

I did the change and merely bought a new battery box.

[emelaich]

2017 25FC,FB; replaced a pair of Interstates under warranty with another pair a little over a year ago only this time had about 15 mos on 1-year warranty batteries, one of which had a bad cell. Didn't really jump at the chance to pay $120+ for another one so off to WM for an EverStart. We've had great luck with these on the boat as well as several cars/trucks with a couple lasting through six Texas summers.

The Interstates of course are group 24 and I wanted to go up to a 27 which was only a few $ more. The battery box measures 14" x 15" and the EverStart 27DC is just a little over 12" in length by 6+ inches. With the flanges on the sides, it's a snug fit but it fits next to its remaining Interstate co-worker with fractions of inches to spare.

WM has apparently done away with their 2-year warranty Maxx deep -cycle batteries in groups 24 and 27 but still offer a 29 with the 2-year Maxx warranty. We'll see how this one works out and when the Interstate goes--shouldn't be too long--I'll grab another ES and continue the comparison. BTW, yes, you do lose the little plastic tray but hopefully, gain a couple of dozen amp hours and who knows? Maybe a longer-lasting battery array.

[SeaLevel]

Originally Posted by emelaich

With the flanges on the sides, it's a snug fit but it fits next to its remaining Interstate co-worker with fractions of inches to spare.

I was under the impression that you should use a matched pair of batteries, rather than two different brands/types like it sounds like you're doing.