Generator or batteries for boondocking? - Page 4
 

Generator or batteries for boondocking?

Started by belfert, September 30, 2021, 12:27:15 PM

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belfert

I could put in LifePO4 batteries that would have slightly more amp hours than my AGM batteries for around $2,500.  I would have more usable amp hours since LifePO4 batteries can be discharged much further without damage.  I have enough space that I could put in even more LifePO4 batteries for double the amp hours of my AGM batteries, but it would cost me around $5,000.

I can buy a lot of generator fuel for $2,500.
Brian Elfert - 1995 Dina Viaggio 1000 Series 60/B500 - 75% done but usable - Minneapolis, MN

tryduck

Sounds like you came to the same outcome as a few already posted earlier. Run the Genny , just doesn't make sense to invest anything more then just running the generator imo based on your planned yearly use. I mean have new batteries  these just sitting around for 11 months each year for once a year trip?  Even buying a replacement Lead acid bank doesn't really make any sense being you have a genny already to handle your one time use yearly trip already. Best hope your Genny doesn't fail due to prolong yearly sitting , other then that just use what you have already.

freds

Quote from: belfert on October 05, 2021, 05:55:57 AM
I could put in LifePO4 batteries that would have slightly more amp hours than my AGM batteries for around $2,500.  I would have more usable amp hours since LifePO4 batteries can be discharged much further without damage.  I have enough space that I could put in even more LifePO4 batteries for double the amp hours of my AGM batteries, but it would cost me around $5,000.

I can buy a lot of generator fuel for $2,500.

Actually with the LifePO4 batteries you have double the usable power as you are not supposed to discharge AGM batteries below 50%.

windtrader

There are many finer points about lithium that one just has to believe or spend the time researching and learning the principles of nominal vs full capacity, DOD, SOC, C charge and discharge rates, continuous vs peak discharge, chemistry, effects of DOD on charge cycles, etc. That is just the raw cells. then there are all the factors such as BMS functions, cell balancing, wiring, chargers, etc. Some here go on about operating in cold but get way off track on a trivial consideration as it takes practically zero engineering to have a battery box keep batteries in operating range. All these other factors are what matters a lot more. The other one that really is a waste of time trying to convey is the difference in charging for lithium vs lead batteries.

Those of us that have taken the time to research, learn, and apply understand the vast benefits. I'm getting close to not bother replying except to those who post specific questions that show the basics are understood and need help sorting out options or tradeoffs etc.
To be fair, this a forum for BUS topics and the nitty gritty of lithium storage and solar power really need to  be done in their appropriate forums, not here.
Don F
1976 MCI/TMC MC-8 #1286
Fully converted
Bought 2017

luvrbus

Quote from: windtrader on October 16, 2021, 03:18:50 PM
There are many finer points about lithium that one just has to believe or spend the time researching and learning the principles of nominal vs full capacity, DOD, SOC, C charge and discharge rates, continuous vs peak discharge, chemistry, effects of DOD on charge cycles, etc. That is just the raw cells. then there are all the factors such as BMS functions, cell balancing, wiring, chargers, etc. Some here go on about operating in cold but get way off track on a trivial consideration as it takes practically zero engineering to have a battery box keep batteries in operating range. All these other factors are what matters a lot more. The other one that really is a waste of time trying to convey is the difference in charging for lithium vs lead batteries.

Those of us that have taken the time to research, learn, and apply understand the vast benefits. I'm getting close to not bother replying except to those who post specific questions that show the basics are understood and need help sorting out options or tradeoffs etc.
To be fair, this a forum for BUS topics and the nitty gritty of lithium storage and solar power really need to  be done in their appropriate forums, not here.

 
quote
Lol I thought you were writing a article for BCM to publish to help us just kidding.I know I will need to do a lot of research on solar and storage since we bought 173 acres in Globe where the summers are milder than here.Power is about a mile away and ARP wants $185,000.00 to run the power to the land so solar and batteries here I come we are going to be off grid I think they call that       
]
Life is short drink the good wine first

windtrader

Good memory. I did inquire about writing about DIY lithium battery project, then decided to wait for a couple reasons. Article would carry a lot more value if presented after some time in service. With over a year, that is now met. The other major aspect, at least for me, was the off grid system which includes solar panels. So, now with a year of solar feeding the battery system, there is no excuses. LOL I'll follow up with Gary as it is time to get that submitted. thanks
Don F
1976 MCI/TMC MC-8 #1286
Fully converted
Bought 2017

luvrbus

Quote from: windtrader on October 16, 2021, 11:07:09 PM
Good memory. I did inquire about writing about DIY lithium battery project, then decided to wait for a couple reasons. Article would carry a lot more value if presented after some time in service. With over a year, that is now met. The other major aspect, at least for me, was the off grid system which includes solar panels. So, now with a year of solar feeding the battery system, there is no excuses. LOL I'll follow up with Gary as it is time to get that submitted. thanks

Good deal I do better reading black and white,I did some searching last night on utube and google.Utube is boring to me everyone has a different opinion and to wrapped in their self. With google this morning I have about 100 ads people trying to sell solar and batteries lol some offering free solar, that is going to happen nothing is free in this world   
Life is short drink the good wine first

Dave5Cs

Who is buying 173 acres? Windy or Clifford cant tell the way that reads?
"Perfect Frequency"1979 MCI MC5Cs 6V-71,644MT Allison.
2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport 60th Anniversary edition.
1998 Jeep TJ ,(Gone)
Somewhere in the USA fulltiming.

windtrader

not me. i own 5000 acres with a few other owners. Staging area for the retreat when the collapse comes. :(
Don F
1976 MCI/TMC MC-8 #1286
Fully converted
Bought 2017

luvrbus

Rick and I bought the 173 acres in Globe at the foot of the Pina Mountains and Tonto National Forest flat with good water and plenty of pine trees @ 5400 ft elevation,I'll send you some photos 
Life is short drink the good wine first

Dave5Cs

Quote from: windtrader on October 17, 2021, 11:44:12 AM
not me. i own 5000 acres with a few other owners. Staging area for the retreat when the collapse comes. :(
Oh no another Coast to Coast listener. A friend of ours keeps talking about all this, LOL :^
"Perfect Frequency"1979 MCI MC5Cs 6V-71,644MT Allison.
2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport 60th Anniversary edition.
1998 Jeep TJ ,(Gone)
Somewhere in the USA fulltiming.

luvrbus

Quote from: Dave5Cs on October 17, 2021, 12:49:51 PM
Oh no another Coast to Coast listener. A friend of ours keeps talking about all this, LOL :^

Do people really listen to him  ??? tuning the radio one time he was on,in about 10 seconds I found another station
Life is short drink the good wine first

windtrader

He who laughs last laughs best. And can laugh at all! Cheap insurance and sure nice to know you got a place to go where you have rights of access. Not getting political but the way the public is losing their minds and forcing less laws being enforced and the increase of crime, my view is this persistent trend leads to less personal safety. Who knows where it ends up, people wake up or ignore it all until it snaps and too late. My view is one of taking care of others, family and close friends who would benefit from living in a safe haven while it gets sorted out. Just like insurance, you don't need it until you do, then it's too late.
Don F
1976 MCI/TMC MC-8 #1286
Fully converted
Bought 2017

usbusin

Quote from: windtrader on October 17, 2021, 11:44:12 AM
not me. i own 5000 acres with a few other owners. Staging area for the retreat when the collapse comes. :(

In Hornbrook?
Gary D

USBUSIN was our 1960 PD4104 for 16 years (150,000 miles)
USTRUCKIN was our 2001 Freightliner Truck Conversion for 19 years (135,000 miles)
We are busless and truckless after 35 years of traveling

Dave5Cs

Ya Don is that it Hornbrook, LOL :^ In the State of Jefferson, Hummmmmm
"Perfect Frequency"1979 MCI MC5Cs 6V-71,644MT Allison.
2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport 60th Anniversary edition.
1998 Jeep TJ ,(Gone)
Somewhere in the USA fulltiming.