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Topic: Storing an LD (Read 1623 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: Storing an LD
Reply #25
Hi Ron; The engine computer doesn't do anything except keep values in memory while the engine isn't running. Before I put in a Trik-L-Start, my engine battery could go months without running, and still start the engine, and the batteries lasted 6-7 years. Of course I don't have freezing temperatures.
As Larry stated, put a timer on the shore power cord for an hour a day, and with a TLS, all the batteries will be happy. The solar control board (SB3000i) uses the 12v. dc reference of the house batteries to control it's voltage outputs, both house and chassis. Greg should turn off the PV panels before disconnecting the house batteries.   RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #26
“As Larry stated, put a timer on the shore power cord for an hour a day, and with a TLS, all the batteries will be happy. The solar control board (SB3000i) uses the 12v. dc reference of the house batteries to control it's voltage outputs, both house and chassis. Greg should turn off the PV panels before disconnecting the house batteries.   RonB
[/quote]”

Good suggestion on turning off the PV panels.  I modified my #7 to take that into consideration. 

Timer is good.  But if one has a smart charger installed it should properly charge the batteries with no adverse impact.  The timer is good if one wants to be super cautious.  It also could reduce the need to add water to the batteries is one has those type of batteries.

I recently sold my 2010 Phoenix Cruiser and it would drain drain over several weeks which is why I installed TLS.  No more drain. Probably the great mystery that is different for different model years.  What ever works, works!! LOL

I follow the KISS method also!!

Ron
Ron and Linda
Ada Michigan

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #27
Just installed the Trik-L-Start device and am monitoring it now. Thanks again for all your advice.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #28
Good install Greg! Looks just like mine.
2010 RB "Monty"  & currently: 2021 RB "Villa Verde"
2004 Born Free 26'
1998 Beaver Patriot 33'
1992 Barth Breakaway 28'
1982 Fleetwood Jamboree 23'
1982 Dolphin/Toyota 22'

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #29
"It seems to me that leaving the LD plugged in with converter on when stored is no different than plugging in at a campground and leaving everything 'on'."

The difference is between a few days or a week at a campground, and perhaps several months when stored over the winter.
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"

 
Re: Storing an LD
Reply #30
I was able to obtain a covered (not enclosed) storage unit for the LD in town at a reasonable cost but since it is covered, the solar panel can’t maintain a charge to the house and engine batteries. However, electricity is available so I can plug in the RV cord using an adapter.

My question is, are there any consequences to leaving the converter-charger powered up all the time?  Would it be better to just trickle charge the engine battery and disconnect the house batteries?

Love that picture - I spy a Trailmanor sitting beside you! That is what I have - until I can find a LD :)

Cheers,
Sara


Re: Storing an LD
Reply #32
Love that picture - I spy a Trailmanor sitting beside you! That is what I have - until I can find a LD :)

Yes, that’s a Trail Manor which gives me lots of room on that side.  There is now a big 5th wheel on the other side so a little tight on the passenger side.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #33

A few years back, I added this little knife switch to the engine battery. Works perfectly and easy to install yourself.

I also keep Dazy Mae under  full cover. Keeping as much sun as you can off the paint, sealants, rubber and decals will keep her looking her best for years to come. I've not had any issues with house batteries keeping or being charged with the 1, LD factory, original (1999) solar panel, even though its covered when stored.

BTW ... If they have more spots available, I would be interested. Losing my space of 13 years, bicycle distance from my house, $125 month ::)

Amazon.com: Battery Doctor Knife Switch Top Post Battery Disconnect for Auto...

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
1999 30' IB

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #34

Purchased these tire covers from Amazon and installed them today to check for fit, although where currently parked at, they are not really needed. The fit is good and they seem to be a thicker material.  I’ve had the white ones on previous RVs and they always got pretty trashy looking after a short time so I thought I would try a different color. They are a dark grayish color:

Amazon.com: Explore Land Tire Covers 4 Pack - Large

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #35
Greg,

Thank you for posting the pics. I was looking at these covers myself. By the looks of them, they seem a little larger than needed. Kinda wonder if a size smaller would be too small. I also wonder if the cover will tighten with time.

I don’t mind returning items to Amazon but after seeing what they do with returned merchandise, I’d rather get it right the first time.

When selecting the size, did you measure the tire or go by the manufacturers guidelines? Nice color choice.

Kent

2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #36

Hi Kent. I think Larry W. told me in a different thread that the diameter of our tires is 29" so I went with the large size. They are a bit loose but I don't think they'll get blown off.  Our Tehachapi winds will give them a good test and, if need be, I'll bungee them.

I think the medium's might also work but may have to be stretched a bit.  If you order the medium size, let us know how they work!

Amazon.com: Explore Land Tire Covers 4 Pack - Medium

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #37
A YMMV comment: The white tire covers may not be cosmetically appealing, particularly after many years of use, but white reflects heat better than dark grey or black. Pretty much any "tire cover", e.g., a piece of plywood or cardboard, will block UV, but heat is also a major tire killer.

As noted, YMMV.....
2003 TK has a new home

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #38
Wanting to protect my new tires from the ground while parked at home, and after looking at the current prices of plywood at Home Depot,  :o  I ran across these rubber mats and purchased two of them. They are very dense, heavy duty mats so am going to give them a try.  They are wide enough to cut one 12” section off to use for the front tires, with the remaining section wide enough to be used for the rear tires.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #39
Ok, I’ll bite, what is wrong with tires contacting the ground?

Yes, plywood is insanely expensive lately, my son in law is paying a small fortune to do their basement this year.
Dave

2017 TK

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #40
Ok, I’ll bite, what is wrong with tires contacting the ground?

Yes, plywood is insanely expensive lately, my son in law is paying a small fortune to do their basement this year.

Dave, I've just always heard it's a good practice when storing an RV.  Here's a short article that addresses it, although my driveway is dirt/gravel, not asphalt.  Maybe I just worry too much and others while chime in?

https://www.rvtravel.com/protect-your-rv-tires-especially-when-parked/
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #41
"I've just always heard it's a good practice when storing an RV."

Greg

My 2004 has spent most of it's life sitting in my side yard, first upon a dirt/gravel mix and the last 5 years on a concrete pad. I do lift the front slightly because I leave the fridge on 24/7 but all 6 tires are making contact with no issues over time.

There was a day, and I may be dating myself, when tires that sat for long periods would develop 'flat spots' so that for the first few miles you would think you were riding a lumber wagon. Thankfully those days are gone!   ::)  ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!

Re: Storing an LD
Reply #42
I swapped out the three-quarter inch plywood that I had been parking on for the rubber mats that I recently purchased. The plywood just wasn’t holding up very well to the weight of the motorhome, bending and even cracking. I think this will be a better solution when parked at home.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264