LiFEPO4

[PNW Fireguy]

We are approaching the home stretch of our 3440RL warranty period and the two dealer supplied 12V batteries which have always been slated for an upgrade recently began to exhibit signs of charging issues. I have not over cooked and check the levels every month.

I would like to know if any fellow MOC members whom have lithium batteries are disappointed in their purchase.

[7.3Ford]

Hi Fireguy,

Lithium batteries are great, but you have to really understand them. See my blog for for info.

http://montana3611rl.blogspot.com/

I ditched the water cooling and run air through the water ports now. I keep getting leaks, and didn't want to take a chance on over torquing bolts and breaking the batteries. The batteries don't really heat up beyond air temperature.

I have the MorningStar Controller set to max volts of 12.02 Volts (80% of full charge), and have lots of power. The relay will disconnect the batteries at 12.06 Volts.

[PNW Fireguy]

Hey John thanks for the response. I have reviewed your installation posts as well as your blog earlier this year and must admit it was one of the catalyst to get me off the top of the fence. Lots of great information. I am close to ordering a Winston 700AH LIFeYPO4. Having a hard time locating any US distributors but still looking. I will charge with a Magnum 3000 Hybrid / ARC50 setup and MS Classic 250. While no "venting" is required I am counting on the air movement in my front compartment to keep the batteries from cooking. I have a genset in the front compartment as well but figured I could utilize the existing air intake and front vent to McGyver something.

[7.3Ford]

Just make sure that you don't charge them to lead acid battery specs because you'll burn up the lithium batteries.