Changing from 8D's to 31 series batteries?????

Dave Siegel · February 04, 2011, 09:26:43 AM

I guess I let our bus sit too long and I am having a hard time charging the 2 8D's up to 100% for starting.( I have not been able to drive the bus due to arm surgery.) Well this surgery has left me with almost no strength in my arms and even when I was stronger I had a hard time lifting and placing the 8D batteries. That brings me to 31 series batteries, are they OK to use in our Silversides? (Detroit 671 motor)

I know that this subject has come up before but I can't seem to find any answers and thought maybe some of you folks with experience can help.

Thanks

Dave

Highway Yacht · February 04, 2011, 09:39:30 AM

Dave.. I ran 2 Group 31 batteries in my 6V92TA powered 1989 RTS for several years with no problem. Of course I am in the Carolina's where it usually doesn't get too cold. My MC-9 that I just purchased several months ago has 8D batteries. I'll probably keep using 8D batteries in it since I am using the OTR A/C on this one.

Jimmy

Ed Hackenbruch · February 04, 2011, 02:58:53 PM

If you don't have otr ac, 2 group 31s will be just fine. I changed mine over about 4-5 years ago and would never go back. I have an 8v71, use a block heater if it gets down to 40 degrees, and it fires right off.

JackConrad · February 04, 2011, 03:15:33 PM

Dave,
I have used 2 group 31s in our coach for the last 9 years. I have replaced them once about 5 years ago. As was mentioned, if the temperatuere is below 45 when I start it, I turn the block heater on for about 30-45 minutes prior to starting. Jack
PS: Are you able to ride that motorcycle yet?

Kwajdiver · February 04, 2011, 06:41:47 PM

I also change the 8D's (after I killed them) with group 31. No problems, last time I started the bus.

Bill
Kwajalein Atoll
Busless

Dreamscape · February 05, 2011, 03:26:23 AM

I started out with 2 group 31's then went to 3 for our 8v71n. Nice to have the extra boost when it's cold. Much easier to handle as we enjoy our sunset years!

Dave Siegel · February 05, 2011, 03:56:00 AM

Thanks for all the great replies. I thought that I remembered series 31 batteries would be OK, and you all have re-affirmed that.
It's really nice to know that support is just around the corner on this forum.

Thanks again, Dave

P.S. Oh yeah Jack here's the update on that motorcycle, last week I finished the motorcycle course and I got my endorsement, so last Saturday I took the bike out for a short ride around the neighborhood, five miles all left turns it was fun and safe. Sunday was beautiful so I decided to go out on the same route but this time do it in reverse (all rights). As I was entering my driveway I realized I was coming in too wide and a little too fast, I tried to push a little more on the handgrip to lean in and I hit the driveway concrete apron and dropped the bike. I skidded almost 15 feet with the bike on top of me. Fortunately, while I was waiting to take the bike out I had installed motorguards and those bars kept the bike up high enough and helped me from loosing my right leg. Jan watched this entire debacle from our front door. Horrified! The right side of my helmet was creamed so you could imagine what my head would have looked like without wearing that helmet. My entire right side is purple with huge black and blues. Oh yeah, the bike is for sale at Florida Motorsports, and I'm left with "What the hell was I thinking?"

JackConrad · February 05, 2011, 04:49:16 AM

Quote from: Dave Siegel on February 05, 2011, 03:56:00 AM
P.S. Oh yeah Jack here's the update on that motorcycle, last week I finished the motorcycle course and I got my endorsement, so last Saturday I took the bike out for a short ride around the neighborhood, five miles all left turns it was fun and safe. Sunday was beautiful so I decided to go out on the same route but this time do it in reverse (all rights). As I was entering my driveway I realized I was coming in too wide and a little too fast, I tried to push a little more on the handgrip to lean in and I hit the driveway concrete apron and dropped the bike. I skidded almost 15 feet with the bike on top of me. Fortunately, while I was waiting to take the bike out I had installed motorguards and those bars kept the bike up high enough and helped me from loosing my right leg. Jan watched this entire debacle from our front door. Horrified! The right side of my helmet was creamed so you could imagine what my head would have looked like without wearing that helmet. My entire right side is purple with huge black and blues. Oh yeah, the bike is for sale at Florida Motorsports, and I'm left with "What the hell was I thinking?"

Dave,
Wow, glad you are OK, it could have been much worse. Jack

Dave Siegel · February 05, 2011, 05:01:48 AM

You are so right Jack. That's why the bike is for sale. I believe in second chances but not with my life.

Dave