Batteries

[Music Man]

I suspect that the batteries on our 2013 3100 RL Montana are failing. After trying to raise the front jacks, I charged the batteries for 24 hrs. Same results. The batteries are maintenance free. If I do need to replace what is the best brand? I have always thought highly of Interstate.

Thanks for your help

[Ozz]

Like the Chevy, Ford Dodge debate, folks generally promote what they are currently using, not to break the trend: Trojan.
I became familiar with the brand name in high school.. drum roll please...
Back to the Batteries, you can get a 240 AH 6 volt with the same dimensions as the lighter capacity and lighter plate 220 AH, this means better quality and longevity.
You can get them almost anywhere while traveling as well. You will need to increase the cables when jumping up in size.
Google, or search 'The 12 volt side of life' both one and two. This will help you, and you can read at your own speed of picking up information and note-taking.
Good luck. Ozz

[TLightning]

I'd try to find out why they failed. If you have a 2013 rig, why would they be toast so soon?

[DQDick]

One of the things most people don't understand about batteries is that the lower you take them before recharging them the shorter their life. If they get taken down below 50% they can be finished. I don't know about the battery monitors in the newer rigs, but the one that came in ours wouldn't give me the info I needed not to have a problem. I agree with Ozz. When I understood that one battery wasn't enough for us, I went with two top of the line interstate 12v's and they did well for us. When I came to understand batteries better and we went to solar we switched to 6v golf cart batteries.

[DarMar]

After 2 years at best the OEM battery should still perform????

[TLightning]

quote:Originally posted by DarMar

After 2 years at best the OEM battery should still perform????

Yes I agree, and, after two years the worst OEM battery should still perform.

[sapest]

Hate to ask might be a more expensive question.
What other test has been done to convice you its a battery problem? Load test?
-Steve

[Music Man]

May have found the problem. Trailer is stored 20 miles from home. Went to trailer today and worked. Checked battery switch and of course it had been in the ON position for about 4 months. Brought batteries home and they are on the charger. Hopefully they will take the charge. DARN!! No one else to blame.

Thanks for your help

[Music Man]

Sorry...Statement should have been that NOTHING WORKED.