4 replies to this topic

[PJorgen]

OK, strange question here.  I read all the threads about changing various components of the FWC electrical system, and as a DIY guy I want to do something, anything.  But do I really need to?

 

Here's my situation: 2014 FWC Hawk with a three-way fridge, one battery, no solar.  Original battery as installed by FWC in 2014.

 

I tend to move every day when camping so the battery stays almost fully charged.  Have never had the battery show less than 2/3 charge based on the stock FWC battery monitor.  Never had issues with insufficient electrical power to meet my needs.

 

I'm kind of leaning toward the "if it ain't broke don't mess with it" approach, but I'm also intrigued by the various upgrades I read about here.

 

All advice is welcome!

Edited by PJorgen, 29 November 2020 - 08:26 PM.

[pvstoy]

OK, strange question here.  I read all the threads about changing various components of the FWC electrical system, and as a DIY guy I want to do something, anything.  But do I really need to?

 

...

 

I'm kind of leaning toward the "if it ain't broke don't mess with it" approach, but I'm also intrigued by the various upgrades I read about here.

 

All advice is welcome!

 

If it has been working fine for this long, keep going.  Use your money for trips and gas and such.  Some day you will be replacing the battery... would be a time to look into and consider Lithium system.  Or just replace the battery with similar and go on for many years to come using the money you did not invest.

 

Most upgrade system with solar and such as they have a need for it with demanding draw on DC voltage.  If you don't have a need than keep it simple.

[Vic Harder]

I'm in the "How do you know it ain't broke if you ain't measurin' nuthin'?" camp.  You need to measure.  Is your factory gauge the round Overland Solar gauge (decent) or the large panel with lights that also measures the water level?  That thing is a joke.

 

Also, you WILL get a better charge if you simply install a DC-DC charger near your camper battery.

[kmcintyre]

I agree with others.  If you aren't seeing any battery drain/degradation keep going.  Once the battery gets to a point where it's not holding a charge as much, upgrade to a LifePO4.  Build it yourself ahead of time and save a lot of money, etc.  I posted a while ago about where I sourced parts, etc. if you search the forum.  

 

Other than that, I agree with Vic.  A DC-DC charger probably is a good idea and you'll need one for a LifePO4 anyway and it'll save your alternator (depending on what you have).

[fuzzymarindave]

OK, strange question here.  I read all the threads about changing various components of the FWC electrical system, and as a DIY guy I want to do something, anything.  But do I really need to?

 

Here's my situation: 2014 FWC Hawk with a three-way fridge, one battery, no solar.  Original battery as installed by FWC in 2014.

 

I tend to move every day when camping so the battery stays almost fully charged.  Have never had the battery show less than 2/3 charge based on the stock FWC battery monitor.  Never had issues with insufficient electrical power to meet my needs.

 

I'm kind of leaning toward the "if it ain't broke don't mess with it" approach, but I'm also intrigued by the various upgrades I read about here.

 

All advice is welcome!

 

I'm coming from a similar rig.  2015 Hawk with propane fridge, furnace; and, cooktop, so pretty light electrical user.   I did install a 100 watt solar panel with MPPT charge controller.  My factory AGM is a dual purpose deep cycle and I understand the life span can be 4 to 8 years.   I probably should have waited a bit and just replaced the AGM with a true deep cycle however I just purchased a LiFePO4 battery and now I am sure that I will have to modify the system somewhat; like disconnecting the charging circuit from the truck alternator?  I've also just purchased a 600watt pure sine wave inverter which is yet to be installed.  I'll be talking to Battleborn battery tech help line to confirm what if any changes I need to make.