11-26-2020, 07:34 AM
I replace my batteries, both house & chassis every five years and have avoided battery issues with this maintenance schedule.
The "Check alt" light started about 2 years ago. After Newell told me batteries were the only thing that could cause this to occur, I had the batteries load tested and they tested good. Since then I have replaced all the batteries, on schedule, and nothing changed. I have also changed my merge switch which I do on a 2 yr schedule.
"I am NOT a fan of charging the house batteries with the alternator."
If you are driving without the genset on, isn't the alternator charging both battery banks? I thought this is what the battery isolator allows.
I do understand that the triangle belt setup is not the best. I have run air ducting to the rear of the alternator to increase cooling and I don't start out without the batteries being in float mode prior to starting the engine. I have also put a 3 13/16" pulley on the alternator--came with a 3 1/4" pulley. This has eliminated belt squeal.
I get this "strange issue" when I am driving and Suzy starts the genset prior to stopping. Now I understand why.
Thanks again to all for your info & patience with someone who has a lot to learn on electricity.
The "Check alt" light started about 2 years ago. After Newell told me batteries were the only thing that could cause this to occur, I had the batteries load tested and they tested good. Since then I have replaced all the batteries, on schedule, and nothing changed. I have also changed my merge switch which I do on a 2 yr schedule.
"I am NOT a fan of charging the house batteries with the alternator."
If you are driving without the genset on, isn't the alternator charging both battery banks? I thought this is what the battery isolator allows.
I do understand that the triangle belt setup is not the best. I have run air ducting to the rear of the alternator to increase cooling and I don't start out without the batteries being in float mode prior to starting the engine. I have also put a 3 13/16" pulley on the alternator--came with a 3 1/4" pulley. This has eliminated belt squeal.
I get this "strange issue" when I am driving and Suzy starts the genset prior to stopping. Now I understand why.
Thanks again to all for your info & patience with someone who has a lot to learn on electricity.
Steve Bare
1999 Newell 2 slide #531