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Battery Information
The battery(s) must be securely strapped in the compartment at all times.
The battery(s) is charged by the truck’s charging system while the truck is running or when connected to 120-volt power through the
power converter. If equipped, the onboard generator charges the battery while running through the power converter.
Check that the battery liquid level is correct (weekly in warm climate, monthly in cold climate). Using protective gloves, take the caps
off the battery. Look for a ‘fill line’ inside the battery wall. If the fluid is below the line, add distilled water as required. Remember to
also check the condition of your truck battery.
Clean battery terminals and cable periodically using a wire brush and baking soda. Be sure the caps are securely in place when
cleaning. Be sure the wing nuts on top of the battery are tight. Loose wing nuts can cause arching and intermittent, or loss of, 12-volt
power. Use caution not to touch battery terminals to metal door frame when removing or installing the battery. Always disconnect the
negative (-) cable first and reconnect it last.
Remove rings, metal watchbands, and other metal jewelry before working around a battery. Use caution when using metal tools. If the
tool contacts the battery terminals or metal connected to them, a short circuit could occur which could cause personal injury or fire.
DO NOT
allow battery electrolyte to contact skin, eyes, fabrics or painted surfaces. The electrolyte is a sulfuric acid solution that
could cause serious personal injury or property damage. Wear eye protection when working with batteries.
Battery Storage Precautions
When you store your camper for a week or more be sure to disconnect the battery(s). Electronic tuning radios, the propane detector,
and the CO detector all draw a small amount of current when the battery is connected. Even disconnected batteries will naturally “self-
discharge” about 1 % of capacity per day. If you intend to store your camper for any length of time, remove the battery(s). Store it in a
cool, dry place and recharge every month. Batteries will discharge on their own. Recharging will also help prevent problems with
battery sulfating which leads to premature battery failure.
Battery Charging
Normally the battery(s) will be kept charged by either the truck charging system while on the road, solar panel, or by the AC/DC
power converter when plugged into AC service. On those occasions when the battery needs to be charged from a different charging
source, please follow these safety guidelines:
Disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the camper’s electrical system
DO NOT
smoke near batteries that are being charged or which have recently been charged. Please note that batteries are
being charged while you drive, and while you are connected to 120-volt AC power through the power converter/charging
circuit.
Use care when connecting or disconnecting booster leads or cables while charging. Poor connections are a common cause of
electrical arcs that can cause explosions.
Check and adjust the electrolyte level before charging. Fill each cell to the indicator level with distilled water. Always
remove the vent caps (if equipped) before charging the battery.
Never expose the battery to open flame or electric spark. Chemical action in the battery generates hydrogen gas that is
flammable and explosive.
To avoid sparks, turn off all electrical components before connecting the battery cables. Connect the
black
or
red
to the
positive
(+) post on the battery. Connect the
white
cable to the
negative
(-) post.
NOTE:
This is different than the automotive industry which uses red and black. There are fuses on the front of the power converter
that will protect the camper’s electrical system if you accidentally connect the battery in reverse.
The 40-amp main circuit fuse will not allow power into the camper or the battery(s) to be charged when an overload or short circuit
occurs. To reset replace the 40-amp fuse, If the fuse continues to burn out, a short circuit or overload condition is indicated. Have the
system checked by a qualified personnel.