What type of charger to maintain starting batteries?

[Runcutter]

Great information, and thanks to Brian for starting the topic.  We keep the 4107 (12 volt) in a storage area, and I'm not paying more for one of the few sites with power.  I haven't had the coach out in a while, so I know the batteries are dead.  I plan to replace all the batteries this spring, since I don't know how old the current set are (2 8D's for the 8V71, and 1 8D for the generator).

Solar sure looks to be the way to go.  I looked at the website mentioned above, and when I saw the solar chargers they talked about placing them on the dashboard and plugging into the cigarette lighter.  I always pull my battery switches, so that specific isn't real appealing - plus what I read deals with cars, not larger vehicles.

I'd be interested in more experience/suggestions regarding a solar option.  While we don't get much snow in Dallas, we do get hail; so I'd rather not have anything breakable on the roof - but something I could put in either a side window (but how about tint/translucency issues), or the dash/driver side window would seem to be the best.

Thanks in advance.

Arthur

[Gary '79 5C]

Arthur,
You are ahead of me. I agree with the solar cells in the manner in which you suggested. Years ago, I was in partnership of a plane which was parked outside and the easiest way to charge was a panel in the window. I was always amazed at the voltage achieved with little direct sunlight. (Don't Take much to impress me, just a W.Va. Boy)
Granted the 8D's are much larger, but the solar panel low amperage will protect from over charging and is just what is needed to offset the parasitic draw, DDEC etc. No ext. cords, charger on, charger off, cooked batts.

It worked great for me. I am thinking of it for my bus, as not using it as much in the winter months...

Good Luck,
Gary Pasternak

[gus]

I assume by generator battery you mean this is your house battery? If not, that is a very large battery just to start a generator.

If you're replacing batteries you might want to consider using Group 31s which a lot of us have done. They will do the job under almost all circumstances and sure are a lot easier to handle. I have two for each bank in my 4104 and have been very happy with them. All four fit into the original battery bay intended for two 8Ds and there is room for at least one more there. The two house 31s are deep cycle but the same size.

Ray,

The Battery Tenders I have are both chargers and maintainers.