Vectra battery replacement

jimandsue60 · 05-28-2007, 04:50 PM

I just replaced my 3 group 31 batteries with 4 Lifeline 6 volt AGM batteries. The only thing I had to modify was the battery holdown system.

I bought 3/4 by 1/8 metal straps and 1/4 20 all thread to secure the batteries. I did have to drill some new holes for the all thread. I did not have to add any additional wires. Here is a picture. Any questions please ask.

Jim

jimandsue60 · 05-28-2007, 04:50 PM

I just replaced my 3 group 31 batteries with 4 Lifeline 6 volt AGM batteries. The only thing I had to modify was the battery holdown system.

I bought 3/4 by 1/8 metal straps and 1/4 20 all thread to secure the batteries. I did have to drill some new holes for the all thread. I did not have to add any additional wires. Here is a picture. Any questions please ask.

Jim

warrenh · 05-28-2007, 05:20 PM

Jim...Did you change the charge rate setting on the inverter/converter for the AGM batteries.

jimandsue60 · 05-28-2007, 06:05 PM

Yes, I change it to sealed battery, 400 ah or more. I even adjusted my solar panel regulator to the specifics listed on the battery. The new batteries claim to be 220 amphours, with 4 I should be at 440 amphours.

With no dc load on the batteries I show float mode with 13-13.7 volts with 0 amps.

I am well aware of the dimented dimmensions issues and I am ready to replace it with a higher quality inverter/charger if necessary.

Thanks
Jim

Pusherman · 05-28-2007, 06:07 PM

Jim,

As usual, nice job!

Why did you replace your batteries -- were you having problems with them?

jimandsue60 · 05-28-2007, 06:22 PM

Don, great question as I forgot to add that info. One was shorted out, one had one dead cell (probably why they were overcharging and failed), and one was extremely low on the specific gravity. I have contacted Winnebago and they are going to credit me for the 3 batteries.

Jim

jimandsue60 · 05-28-2007, 06:26 PM

One other thing I forgot to mention. There are 3 tiny vent holes on each battery running down the center of each battery. I did make sure my tie down strap did not cover them.

Jim

dengraham · 05-29-2007, 08:09 AM

Jim,
I am also having problems with my batteries. How do you adjust the solar panel regulator?
>>Dennis

jimandsue60 · 05-29-2007, 09:30 AM

Dennis I was talking about the regulator for the 400 watts of solar panels I installed not the little panel that came with the motorhome. I don't think there is any adjustment for the little panel.

What problems are you having with your batteries?

Jim

dengraham · 05-29-2007, 10:27 AM

They have been using water like crazy. The dealer feels they have a bad cell but claims it probably happened becuase they were low on water, so it's my fault. We cleaned them, filled them and I'm constantly checking them and seem to be okay but I don't have a lot of "stress" on them. I am thinking the inverter is "charging" them too often? Any of this make sense?
>>Dennis

jimandsue60 · 05-29-2007, 01:46 PM

Did the dealer check all the cells with a hydrometer? All you need is one bad cell. Turn off all lights and appliances in the coach and see what the dimensions panel says. You should see someting like Chgr-Float Mode 13.2 volts 0 amps

If the dealer says there is a bad cell, then the batteries should be replaced. It most likely will not cure itself.

My 2005 Journey did the same thing, always charging, I replaced the batteries and the problem went away. I know the dimensions charger/inverter are not the best but they do work.

Jim

dengraham · 05-29-2007, 03:21 PM

Okay but the dealer is saying it is my fault and NAPA will probably not replace them. How did you get WBO to "credit" the batteries?

jimandsue60 · 05-29-2007, 05:39 PM

Since you have had your coach since last November or so, if you let the batteries dry up maybe it is your fault and should bite the bullet and replace them. But if you have been checking them and adding water when necessary you should be able to get some relief.

I suggest you CALL Winnebago and talk to a service rep. Maybe they will tell you that your charger is bad and want to send you a new one. You should start a dialogue with them before the 1 year warranty is up.

Jim

Gary_Phoenix, AZ · 05-29-2007, 06:15 PM

Hi Jim & Dennis

We had to replace all 3 of our house batteries also. They would boil the water out every 2 days. When I took it into the dealer they said it was my fault because I let them go dry. I purchased the coach the 1st of December 2006.
After they tested batteries they ended up replacing them at no charge.

Gary
2007 Vectra 40TD

jimandsue60 · 05-29-2007, 06:47 PM

Hi Gary, how are the new batteries working?

Jim

Gary_Phoenix, AZ · 05-29-2007, 07:12 PM

Been working great haven't had any further problem with them or haven't had to add any water. They were replaced in Feb.

Gary

FloridaNative49 · 04-19-2008, 04:20 AM

Is warranty consideration on batteries only 12 months?

boulderado · 04-19-2008, 09:29 AM

I think the warranty is typically 30 months for Interstate batteries - it is pro-rated so you will not receive full credit if the batteries are older than 12 months.

Also, we have had major problems with the Parallax converter that is installed from the factory. We had one replaced in our Suncruiser as well as our current Journey. The Parallax tends to boil the batteries and last year we decided to go with a Xantrex TrueCharge instead. It has been working great, but since the original batteries were 'tortured' by the Parallax I have Universal AGMs on order as replacement.

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