08-01-2021, 05:54 PM
I know some of you have switched from lead acid to lithium and I am now at the do it point. Before I make some expensive learning mistakes I was hoping you could recommend what may have worked for you.
What I am planning on doing: I will keep 2 lead acid 8D batteries in the back for the Detroit start batteries. I will put 2 lithium 300ah batteries with built in battery management in the house/generator battery location.
Future plan includes adding 8-10 300 watt solar panels.
If you see a problem or opportunity for improvement with my plan please share.
My needs include being able to boondock (with or without generator).
Questions :
1. I have the original converter and a newer inverter. I understand I have to replace the converter to charge the lithium. Do I get a converter/inverter combo or separate units? Why?
2. I plan to install a battery trickle charger from the lithium to the lead acid. Will this be enough to maintain the lead acid if I remove the original converter (I know the converter is for the house without merge) but if the engine start batteries die how do I charge them as I do not think I can merge if I go lead acid and lithium?
3. How do I determine the correct ratio of battery ah to solar watt capacity?
4. What am I missing?
What I am planning on doing: I will keep 2 lead acid 8D batteries in the back for the Detroit start batteries. I will put 2 lithium 300ah batteries with built in battery management in the house/generator battery location.
Future plan includes adding 8-10 300 watt solar panels.
If you see a problem or opportunity for improvement with my plan please share.
My needs include being able to boondock (with or without generator).
Questions :
1. I have the original converter and a newer inverter. I understand I have to replace the converter to charge the lithium. Do I get a converter/inverter combo or separate units? Why?
2. I plan to install a battery trickle charger from the lithium to the lead acid. Will this be enough to maintain the lead acid if I remove the original converter (I know the converter is for the house without merge) but if the engine start batteries die how do I charge them as I do not think I can merge if I go lead acid and lithium?
3. How do I determine the correct ratio of battery ah to solar watt capacity?
4. What am I missing?
Mark and Melanie
1985 Newell 40’
#75 ? (still not confirmed)
First motor coach