I've been running 2x100amp UL100amp(Ultimate) Batteries in the 4wd for just about 2.5 years now, and they have just failed. Addmitedly, they have been constantly working hard feeding 2xEngel Fridges, but I would have thought they would have lasted longer. The supplier has commented that a 2-4year life span would be expected from them given the work load that they have, but Im a bit reluctant to replace them with the same Batteries again. Has anyone else had experiences with the same Batteries?. What would be the best Batteries to use in this situation......AGM? or maybe GEL??
I would check your charging system first. Nothing kills them quicker than not charging them properly, either overcharging or under charging. I got 5 years out of my first set of AGMs and that was cycling then every day for 9 months each year. Give gels a miss. Much fussier than AGMs.
Curl - I have a new Jayco Starcraft and have the two(2) same batteries in it supplied by Jayco. I hope I get longer than what you got out of yours. Larry
Hello all, just thought i would give my two bobs worth on batterie life, Just remember just because you purchase a new van does't mean the batterie are going to be new , believe me, some dealers take out
batteries from second hand vans.and put them into new vans , i know it is a no/ no/.. but , we got ripped off re 2nd hand batteries with the van before our present one.....Apart from that.... we have never had any longer than 2/4 years and i have tryed all types and every brand around.
The UL100 Batteries are regulated at 14.4Volts. The charging information on the Batteries indicates that a Vehicle Regulator is suitable for charging, which is what I predominately use via a "Matson" dual battery setup. If I am stationary for any length of time, I then charge via a heavy lead from the Solar System in the Caravan. I"ve been advised that the best way to charge the batteries(in the Vehicle) would be via a DC-DC charger, and not through the Battery Relay set up. However, according to the manufacturers of the "Matson" relay, the outcome is basically going to be the same, assuming that the Vehicle Alt/Reg is operating correctly which I believe it is. A 2012 MN Triton only 2 months old. And if there was a problem, I would expect that the Vehicle crank battery to be effected as well. Perhaps I should be using a DC-DC Charger and remove the Dual Battery Relay all together?