Initial Setup

[Scottjaz]

First off, thank y’all for this forum and any information I receive in advance. We just took delivery of a new 26 Montana 3915tb. Got it at our lake side lot and leveled. We have owned a smaller (less technology) camper for 10 years. This Montana will remain at the lot, covered, and probably never moved. I have it hooked to 50 amp service and on my previous camper, had a switch to select shore power vs battery.
Do I turn the batteries off via the battery switch or is that necessary? I’d also appreciate any other helpful hints concerning this model anyone has for us.
Thanks again for any info.

 

[Carl n Susan]

There are some "it depends..." answers, but most likely: Yes, leave the battery switch on. Things like the slides take more amperage than the converter can supply and the battery fills that need.

 

[Scottjaz]

Thank you for the info.
Our slides will remain out with slide jacks in place for additional support. If that matters.
Thanks again.

 

[Carl n Susan]

Slide jacks are not needed nor recommended. A tire or suspension problem,lowering the chassis, will adversely affect the slide. The slides are engineered to be extended for long periods without additional support.

 

[DutchmenSport]

As Carl n Susan stated, yes... leave the battery switch "on" for the reasons he stated. In addition, if you have an "inverter" (residential refrigerator)... I personally recommend leaving the inverter turned on all the time too. Granted, if hooked up to shore power the inverter is not needed. But if you experience a power outage, the inverter will keep the refrigerator operational. And you never know when there will be a power outage, especially if you are not at the camper 100% of the time.

Supports under the slides.... I confirm also ... bad idea! Don't do it.

 

[Mikelff]

First off, thank y’all for this forum and any information I receive in advance. We just took delivery of a new 26 Montana 3915tb. Got it at our lake side lot and leveled. We have owned a smaller (less technology) camper for 10 years. This Montana will remain at the lot, covered, and probably never moved. I have it hooked to 50 amp service and on my previous camper, had a switch to select shore power vs battery.
Do I turn the batteries off via the battery switch or is that necessary? I’d also appreciate any other helpful hints concerning this model anyone has for us.
Thanks again for any info.

I would recommend putting the slides in when not in use. It protects the slides in case of storms or other “Murphy” events when you are not there. If you are going to use a cover other than a permanent type cover, you will have to put the slides in anyway. If it’s a hard cover you can probably leave them out. Slide stands not a good idea as others have mentioned. As far as the battery switch in the convince center, it does not turn everything off. You still have battery drain from smoke and gas detectors. It really depends on if you will need your fridge running full time. To turn off all battery power, you will need a battery cut off switch on your battery negative post. If you go that route, you will probably want a trickle charger for your battery. Do you get hard freezes at your place? If so, you will want to winterize your trailer. Lots of things to consider based on your use for the trailer.