Backup power for hydraulic jacks and slides

[dghoover]

I've had a couple of occasions when batteries have died without warning in a boat and vehicle. My understanding ( please correct me if I'm wrong) is that the Hydraulic jacks and slides need fully charged batteries to function correctly even when connected to shore power. If that's correct I want to be prepares for a battery failure. We are almost always connected to shore power when using jacks etc. exceptions are rest areas and storage location. I have 2 X 6 volt batteries in my 2026 Montana 3100RL.
The back up options I'm considering are: 1/ 30 ft jumper cables to jump from my Ram 2022 Diesel 3500 truck. 2/ a battery charger with an 80 amp engine start setting. Are these feasible ways to have back up for battery failure or are there better alternatives, Your advise would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[scottz]

Yes, your hydraulic pump needs a battery; the converter usually does not have the current capacity to run the pump without a battery. The jumper cables will work and I think the battery charger would work, but you would need shore power for the that. A regular set of jumper cables would also work, assuming you are not connected to the RV. You might worry too much.

 

[dghoover]

thanks much appreciate the response. Yes I do worry too much, but having been burnt before I'm determined not to have it happen again.

 

[RMcNeal]

I bought a jump start box for my truck that is capable of starting up to a 13 liter diesel. It has worked well on its own when I had my batteries out of the rig for replacement. I also have 2 - 6 Volt GC2 golf cart batteries. That would be a good backup plan if you need it.

 

[Theunz]

The start setting on my Schumacher battery charger only gives you 15 or so seconds of power before needing a couple of moments cool down to reset, so that my be a frustrating experience trying to move slides and jacks. A battery pack might do better but since they are pretty compact they too may not have the capacity needed. I would go with the long jumper cables option. Keep in mind you I’ll need some very heavy gauge wire for that length of cable. One thought would be to use welding cable and build your own jumper cables. This option lets you get the length you want and get heavy duty clamps to complement it. You could also investigate tow truck supply outlets, as the usually have long jumper cables.