REV Midwest Automotive Design American Coach Patriot 2022, Owner'S Manual

Page: 27 / 178

A M E R I C A N C O A C H P A T R I O T O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L
A M E R I C A N C O A C H // P A T R I O T S E C T I O N 4 // 2 5
Avoid electric shock and fire hazards by paying close attention to
how each electrical component functions, its purpose, and its proper
operating and maintenance procedures� That information is available
within SECTION 9 (ELECTRICAL) of this document, in the operating
instructions that apply to the installed appliances in your coach, and
within your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Operating Instructions booklet�
Electrical power is distributed throughout your coach by cabling that is
protected from chafing, physical damage, and exposure with
insulation, special shielding, and / or flexible conduit. A periodic
inspection of the condition of that cabling both inside and beneath the
vehicle is important to ensure your vehicle’s longevity and occupant
safety� This is particularly important should your coach make sudden
contact with any obstruction or road debris, as cabling is routed to and
from the generator (if so equipped), the batteries, and other
components beneath the vehicle� Below is an example of under
coach electrical cabling.
Regardless of how often you use your coach, its electrical system
should be inspected annually to ensure it is safe and in good
condition, which can be performed by an authorized American Coach
or Midwest Automotive Designs Dealership�
NOTE
The condition of your luxury Class B coach’s electrical
system(s) should be inspected annually to ensure occupant
safety and to promote the longevity of the vehicle, its
systems, and key electrical components.
note
■ BATTERIES
Your coach has at least two or more batteries installed� One battery
provides starting and accessory power to the engine and chassis�
The other battery(s) provides “house” power to the coach’s lighting
system, fresh water pump, entertainment system, and other 12 volt
powered accessories and appliances. House battery(s) may be either
an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) design, or a Lithium Iron Phosphate
(LiFePO4) or “Lithium” type. Both perform similar functions but have
unique design, charging, performance, and service characteristics�
Each has advantages and disadvantages, depending upon how and
where you operate your coach�
AGM batteries are considered a flooded or “wet” battery type. They
are typically installed in an upright position, though they may
sometimes be installed on their side� AGM batteries can tolerate
repeated discharging to no greater than 50% of the battery’s rated
capacity� For example, a 225 Amp Hour AGM battery should never be
discharged below 112�5 Amp Hours of capacity� Doing so may
permanently damage the battery, reduce its capacity, and its longevity�
Below is an image of a typical AGM battery installation.
LiFePO4 batteries are a dry cell type of battery that may be mounted
in almost any position� They are not limited to a 50% discharge and
therefore can provide a significantly greater reserve capacity than a
similar AGM battery� For example, a LiFePO4 battery rated at 100 amp
hours can deliver nearly 100% of that capacity without damaging the
battery. As a result of this efficiency, a LiFePO4 battery package offers
substantially greater “off grid” reserve capacity than a coach equipped
with an AGM battery(s).