Battery Maintainer/float charger

trucktramp · May 28, 2016, 01:01:57 PM

Well I replaced the 8d's on my MCI and now I an thinking about putting some type of "battery maintainer" to hopefully extend the life of the batteries. Is anyone using anything like this? I have looked at Battery Tender, Battery Minder, and a few marine versions. I want something that I can mount in one of the bays and leave it connected so when the bus is parked long term, it will be plugged into the power pole.

DoubleEagle · May 28, 2016, 02:52:12 PM

Use one of the many "smart" chargers for a slow trickle charge. I use the CTEK model 7002, which is either Swedish or Swiss in design. There are many levels of charge and features in other models and brands. The main thing is getting one that senses what type of battery you have and its charge state, and then charges accordingly.

Tnghost · May 28, 2016, 03:17:27 PM

Is this for the start batteries I'm thinking about doin the same thing

Skykingrob · May 28, 2016, 05:03:34 PM

I have 4 model 31 start batteries in my prevost with an 8V. I have had a 4 charger post battery tender that I got from O'Reillys for $55 on sale on the batteries for the last 4 years. I have it just sitting on top of the batteries now but when I get the time, I will build a shelf to mount it permanently. I can go to the coach and turn it over without any hesitation any time. I am still building on my coach but I do need to move it occasionally so that is why I put them in and put the battery tender on them
Just my experience.

Rob
Ozark, MO

niles500 · May 28, 2016, 06:26:14 PM

Battery minder, the 24v can be kinda spend y but shop around online after you choose a model, you can get a decent price, HTH

chessie4905 · May 28, 2016, 07:21:35 PM

I use this on my batteries, plus a unit that switches between 4 batteries about every 15 minutes.
http://www.amazon.com/Pulsetech-Xtreme-Auto-Charger-Black/dp/B00BPF0Y64

http://www.pulsetech.net/MULTI-CHARGER-QL-9661.aspx

eagle19952 · May 28, 2016, 09:16:16 PM

i just leave my inverter charger on... it's been getting electrons for about 10 years. never gets turned off.

TomC · May 28, 2016, 10:03:58 PM

Your inverter/charger is a perfect smart battery charger.

belfert · May 29, 2016, 03:35:02 PM

I have a 24 volt Battery Tender on my start batteries. It keeps the batteries going just fine as long as I remember to plug it in.

Gerry H · May 29, 2016, 05:23:13 PM

Hello: One problem that can pop up is that electronic equipment (things you may not be aware of) in your bus and car are always drawing current from the batteries even when shut off unless you disconnect your batteries completely. So let's say you find a deal on a battery minder trickle charger that puts out 2 amps. BUT, the current draw from (that equipment) draws 2 amps from your batteries, your battery minder is NOT going to keep up, let alone actually keep your batteries fully charged, SO, I would recommend at least a 5 amp charger bare minimum (I use a 20A 24V Iota) to take care of the normal drain and still supply enough to keep your batteries fully charged. I know someone will say they use a small one, but I'm sure there's lots of stories about dead batteries to be told on this site. Some can be prevented. Definitely use a "smart" charger if you value your batteries. 52 years as an electronics tech. YMMV Best of luck Gerry

chessie4905 · May 29, 2016, 06:38:56 PM

I have mine disconnected, but my chargers have sequence lights so I can tell they are fully charged or partially.

rip · May 30, 2016, 09:05:42 PM

I also use my inverter as a charger.Never been turned off in 13 years.Just had my trace 4024 repaired and hope it goes another 13.

ake1994 · June 07, 2016, 01:27:55 PM

I too have a Trace 4024. Bus is always plugged up while in the Barn. I have 4 Group 31 start batteries that I use for start and house. Same batteries for 6 years and still going strong.

Breck