Recent content by CJBROWN

If you want to tackle it yourself there's a ton of help on Will's forum here: www.diysolarforum.com There's a whole section on mobile applications. What kind of wiring do you need? AC? DC? Solar panels? Electricians aren't generally well versed in mobile applications. And mobile techs aren't...

Yes, the start button on an Onan will flash a trouble code - the manual will tell you what sequence means what. I'm surprised at the number of 'overheat' claims. Very surprised. We've run our 4kW in all temps without issue - it's a 2005. They can be frustrating when they won't run.

The most common reason they die or won't start is low oil level. They have to be kept topped up. Or low fuel level in the main tank - the pickup is positioned above about a quarter full so you can't use up all your fuel.

SOC by voltage is not very accurate for LFP. They have to get enough amp hours in to reach 3.5VPC or greater to reach full charge. Batteries in parallel need to be fully charged before connecting them, and then they should be wired so that current flows all the way thru both - pos side of one...

Just make sure your alternator has enough spare capacity to feed an extra 50 amps. I got the 18A Victron, does not run hot, does not overload alternator.

A solar controller is not the right device for alternator charging. A dctodc charger is. And a dctodc is generally ignition switch activated - it only turns on when the engine runs. And yes, the feed wire to a trailer is always of concern. Some use a dedicated cable (heavy wire) for this...

Correct. However you could use a pair of jumper cables in a pinch. I have a complete solar lfp conversion and it all works really well. Converter replaced with a lfp compatible charger, deleted the booster/isolator solenoid, and utilized a victron orion for engine charging to house. Victron...

Lifepo4 battery systems really are all they're cracked up to be. But just know they are not a 'drop-in' conversion as many advertise. Most charging systems are not compatible for proper charging. Our 15yo coach got by with a pair of GC2's for the duration, now upgraded to twice the capacity...

I've driven both and agree absolutely. But you left out one major factor in the comparison - the DP costs at least twice as much. ;) A Ventana would be our choice as well - Newmar leads the pack on affordable motorhomes. But starting over on a purchase finance at our age is simply not in the...

Hands down a gas engine is cheaper and easier to maintain than any diesel. A class b or even a c, are very limited in their carrying capacities, both in space as well as weight, and their tanks are small. A very important consideration is annual mileage - how far will you travel - and how...

Our 32' workhorse class A 8.1L gas with allison 5speed is rated for the same. We towed a jeep wrangler for a time, it was about 4300lbs (built rock crawler so it was heavy). Then a Subaru Crosstrek which was super easy at about 3000lbs, but the car wouldn't pull a bike trailer offroad so we got...

The Michelin LTX truck tire is just outstanding. After all the brands and styles I've run over the years, I finally dropped for a set on my Colorado 4x4 and they ride fantastic and are super quiet. Checking specs on TireRack.com they do have a load range E in LT285-75-16 with a 3750lb load...

I did a couple of grand update to the whole power system on my 32' motorhome. 230A lifepo4, new charger, dc-to-dc charger off the chassis circuit, 430W solar on the roof, 160W portable, 600W inverter. LFP is nothing short of amazing. We got by on a pair of GC's - 100Ah usable - mostly dry...

^^This. Has been my take for the past 20 years. But then my tires are well over carrying capacity for my coach weight - I wouldn't want to be on the cusp - tires overheat as they near their carrying capacity. I would definitely weigh each wheel at a scale. If your steers are at full psi and...

As always...it's not the age, it's the miles. And condition. There is SO much FUD here, amazing. Everyone seems to think their own anecdotal experience is gospel. Stick with the premium brands, get a proper inspection if you're not thoroughly familiar with what to look for. Rubber doesn't go...