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mdballou View Drop Down
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Joined: 16 Mar 2019
Location: OH
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Posts: 29 		Direct Link To This Post Topic: Battery(s)
    Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 8:05am
Hi, was looking for help with a battery. Picked up a pod about 4 months ago. Have the new battery from the dealer. Find that I may be doing some boondocking now. Maybe 3 to 5 days. Was going to go to, 2 batteries. Do have a small generator. Could someone recommend a battery. Details and where. Maybe Amazon. Also read that lithiumion might be better, but cost more. Can you mix them? Or is that a no no. 
And read that 6 volt is the better way to go. But why? Are they cheaper. Thank you for any help.
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Posts: 5290 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 8:19am
For 3-5 days boondocking you will probably end up wanting dual batteries, but if you are willing to run your generator daily you might not need to go that route, which adds a lot of tongue weight.  Since you already have a new battery, I suggest you try it first with what you have an see how that works for you. Worst thing that happens is you end up running your generator more frequently than you want to. 

No, you can't mix Lithium with lead acid.  You shouldn't mix two different sizes or manufacturers of lead acid batteries either. 

6V is better because you can connect two 6V in series to get 12V. Series connected batteries always have the same current running through each one so they stay better balanced than if you connect two 12V batteries in parallel. Also, you can get high capacity GC2 size 6V golf cart batteries at a good price. 

Better to shop for batteries locally than Amazon because of the shipping costs.  You'll need two new battery cases for the GC2 size and a cable to connect the two batteries in series, those you can get from the 'zon if you want.  
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StephenH View Drop Down
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Joined: 29 Nov 2015
Location: Wake Forest, NC
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Posts: 6326 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 8:41am
Also check your local Batteries + Bulbs for GC2 6V batteries. Look online and you can save a little if you order online for local pickup. The cable to go between the two batteries is available there or at any auto parts shop. I use dual 6V batteries. Since I use a CPAP machine, I do not want to run out of power in the middle of the night. I can go a few days without worrying about it. I als have a generator, so I can charge if we are in a place without shore power for several days.

I really would like to go with a LiFePO4 battery, but the price is still a little too high and it would also require changing converters to one suitable for that type battery. The weight savings though is very attractive.
StephenH
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TheBum View Drop Down
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Joined: 26 Feb 2016
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Posts: 1407 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 11:48am
Originally posted by StephenH

I really would like to go with a LiFePO4 battery, but the price is still a little too high and it would also require changing converters to one suitable for that type battery. The weight savings though is very attractive.

You just about need to run a wattmeter with a LiFePO4 battery to determine how much charge is left because of the flat voltage curve as it discharges.
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Posts: 1078 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 4:46pm
We have found good quality 6 volt golf cart(GC-2) batteries at Sam's club and Costco for a reasonable cost-generally in the $100-110 range plus core charge.An advantage is that if you have problems, both stores are found readily and they don't question replacements.
We have used this type of battery for about 6 years and have no problems
Vann

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Joined: 03 Oct 2016
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Posts: 62 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 18 Sep 2019 at 11:05pm
I bought a 2X6V battery set this spring to replace my stolen 12V battery. I use a CPAP, but am able to recharge them completely with a Zamp briefcase PV. I listen to the stereo and use the LED lights at night. I also carry a Honda 1iS alternator in the event of the need for more power.
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