I would not connect AGM and Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries to the same charging system without some sort of isolation and also a charging system for the Lithium batteries. AGM and Lithium batteries have different charging profiles, plus a Lithium battery will take as much current as you feed it, so you may need a DC to DC charger between your alternator output and the Lithium battery bank. Otherwise your alternate might be damaged at some point if batteries pull too many amp like during idle. I would recommend something like a Renogy DCC50S, which also includes an MPPT solar charge controller for if in the future you want to add some solar panels (suitcase portable or roof mounted) for boondocking, but there are many brands. If your RV has a charge controller for Lithium than disregard that part above, but definitely don't put AGM and Lithium on the same charging circuit in parallel. Love your channel.
@@herdfan697278 At 5:02 in the video, he says: "we're ready to have 210 Amp hours of lithium power, but we also kept the 200 Amp hours of AGM".....AGMs are still being used/charged.
Drove out to Indiana this Spring where Scott G. converted my van to BB lithium power with all the nice add-ons to go with it. Absolutely love the improvement, and the chance to spend time with these amazing people!
Thanks for the Michelin tire tip Owen, we'll keep it in mind. Our van came with Nexen Radian CT8 tires. We just got back from a few weeks travelling B.C. and Alberta. We had a wonderful time with lots of great rides along the way!
We have it in our amazon store on the inside section, it should provide all the information you need. It has been a great purchase. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Owen, we changed out our AGM batteries for lithium last winter, but also swapped our charge controller for an MPPT controller at the same time. This combo has worked flawlessly so far. I can and do keep my overhead fan on temperature control at 85 degrees as the Travato sits in the Florida sun. It keeps the interior cooler and the single 100 watt panel on the roof keeps those lithium batteries topped off as well! I was glad you moved your lithium inside for protection from road heat and debris. My installer did however sever my TV antenna power. No problem, we don’t watch T. V. anyway on the road. My guess is you are heading to Hoover Dam. Safe travels! We plan to head out next month for points north. See on the road perhaps?
herdfan697278 I’m in Florida too. Can you recommend a place that can install my batteries? I bought the same ones from Costco and there’s no way I can install them. I can’t even get them off my porch😁 I have a T - 2019K Thank you.
I wish I could. One thing to try would be finding a reliable remote RV tech. We’ve used them a bunch in the past and have always been very happy with them.
I’ve got a Promaster with lithium batteries. I love the system. And I love your channel. I’m interested in your new backup camera. “Do what excites you a lot and scares you a little” Way to grow!
I’m the first like 😀. Thanks for the videos! We use to have the Winnebago Paseo. We upgraded to the 2020 coachman beyond lithium. Love it! We only had it since February but we never worry about the batteries so much anymore. Thanks for sharing your journeys! 👍
Hey guys! Missed connecting with you too and planning “almost” meetups! I'm looking hard at a new Solis next spring so may be back on the road and run into sometime. Part-time traveler this time; enjoy having a base and unlimited hot water showers too much to give that up again!
I’d be nervous about taking a hole saw to the floor like you did, except for the fact that we’ve already got the same hole under the driver’s side bed anyway lol. Drill away, aye aye sir!
Good plan guys! With the prices of new Class B's right now, which is outrageous, you made a wise decision to upgrade your current van. You'll enjoy the lithium batteries. I know we do. I like the new back up camera too. I'm with you, our Dodge van Aktiv's camera sucks. Might be something we do in a year or two.
Wow!!! Those were some impressive updates. Michelins are the best! I love the backup camera...what a cool idea (in the mirror)! You have some mad skills being able to put in the lithium batteries yourself! Can't wait for the trip! Headed toward Fontana? My Granddaddy was in the CCC group at Topton. The year before he died (unexpectedly), our family went up there and toured the dam and located his old CCC camp. It was so cool for him to be able to share about that experience with us. I hope you guys have a wonderful trip...looking forward to see where you're taking us! Tell Lynn and Maggie we said, "Hi!" and missed seeing them. ❤️Jane in SC.
I’m so excited, my lion lithium batteries arrived today 😁. Omgosh they’re heavy! I had to leave them on the porch. Will you host a video of your install? I’d really like to see it. Thank you so much for your videos, they really help me. I bought “Zelda” my 2019 K model after watching your videos. I have only had her a month and I found your video last week about being in a rut extremely helpful. I’m kinda Afraid of driving her on the highway and I drive back roads to avoid them. I’m definitely going to order the mirror camera so I can see what’s going on behind me. Thanks for making these videos I really enjoy them.
Always enjoy your videos! As you talked through the issues I was laughing because my thought process works just like yours! New is always fun for a while, but tweeking what you already own can be more satisfying. Safe journey!
Nothing like riding on new tires. Your new back up camera is really nice. The lithium batteries are a huge addition. You are making some really great upgrades. Can't wait to see your next dam video. Haha!
I was hoping you were going to get the revel so we could buy your Travato. We are looking for a good used one and prices now seem to be nuts. The mirror-mounted backup camera looks fantastic I would enjoy a whole video on that alone.
Great video. Smart option to keep and upgrade what you have. As a solo traveler needing to maintain and run a generator had me researching for options. Always have loved the Travato K models but the L while it made sense seemed out of reach. Have found a K layout option with lithium I could do. Just waiting for it to be built be safe out there and I so enjoy watching both of you and your videos. You’re good people!
Thank you for the awesome info on your updates! Our own Travato 59K doesn't arrive till December, we wanted to KL but just out of price range. Your lithium upgrade may just be the way for us. Also, video mirror seems like a terrific upgrade. Looking forward to your updates, keep up the great video content!
@@EasyChineseFood Hi May Lynn, we placed the order about 2 weeks ago. Dealer said Dec delivery on all Travato's, wish it didn't take so long, but using the down time for lots of research and great TH-cam content like this one!
I'm so jealous. I really want lithium batteries. I know I will eventually get some. I also want to get solar. I have portable suitcases but I'd love to also have solar on my roof. You must be travelling to a dam somewhere. Safe travels and stay healthy!
Yes... to a dam but you know that already now... we are super late in answering comments. We need to get a suitcase panel to add to our solar so we can park in shade and still charge. Li batteries make a HUGE difference and well worth the money.
Thanks for your comments on the Michelin Cross Climates. We have been looking at those for the replacement of our OEM Nexen tires. Your solution for added lithium capacity cost a lot less than the upgrade to a KL Travato. It may be more reliable too. Our KL is still having trouble charging and Winnebago is still having trouble figuring out the problem. Do your lithium batteries recharge while you are driving? If so, how long does it take for them to recharge from something like 30%?
Hi Lynn, Owen & Maggie! We have been watching you three for awhile now and absolutely love your adventures. We found our Travato rearview mirror lacking as well, and were wondering if you were going to post how you installed your new Pormido mirror? Was it difficult? Safe travels home.
Not planning to do a video on it but we can walk you through installing if you need us to. We ran the cable in under the passenger side rear door, through the back cabinet, inside the bed cabinets and under the headliner to the mirror. Bet the whole thing didn’t take 15 minutes. Great addition. Let us know if you get one and need help installing.
Exciting updates!!! As a fellow Travato owner with much the same concerns, we have. 2016 G), I’m really interested in what you’re doing!!! I was hoping to find the link to that mirror camera in the description so that I could check it out! Darn... not there!
The backup camera is on our Amazon page in the inside section. Here’s the link to our page. It’s been a great addition. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Thanks for sharing . I’m interested on the Lion Lithum battery add on . But are you keeping the older AGM ? To work together with the Lithum? Just curious on how you’ll get them charged up ? Will the batteries run your a/c ? Thanks for sharing.
I love your channel- never miss a Sunday! My husband is interested in the rear view mirror. He would like to know what brand is it and who sells it. We pull a small trailer with our suv. Would it work for us? Thank you
I can't really comment because I have not seen the set up. But in my experience it's a very bad idea to mix batteries with different charging profiles. Good luck and happy tails.
From everything we’ve read as long as we keep the AGM profile for charging the batteries should be fine.... not ideal but many have kept the AGMs and added the lithium with no problems. We are giving up some of the faster charging capabilities of the two lithium’s and we’re maybe giving up a little of the top end of the capacity but until the AGMs give up the ghost I think it’s a good compromise. We’ll see though.
Hey Owen, I know it’s been awhile since you’ve done the lithium upgrade to your Travato…but I just purchased a used 2017k and was wanting to add a SOK 206ah lithium battery instead of the two Lion Energy batteries that you used. My question is about the cabling. Do you have a video showing the cabling and what you used? I’m guessing you used the 1.0 gauge cable? In your video you said you connected it to the wrong side of the isolation relay? To my understanding, one side of the isolation relay goes to the chassis battery and the other to the coach battery? I’m guessing you connect the positive to the coach side? Does the negative side go to the chassis ground? Sorry to bother you about Travato stuff since now you’re off and running in your new van for over a year now…but I still enjoy watching your videos! Thanks for your time and help…keep having fun and continue posting the great videos! Take it easy, Steve
Those SOK 206 batteries are pretty cool! Yes, used 1.0 gauge cable. The connection point is actually on the passenger side of the relay. I chose the wrong one to begin with. Good luck with the project.
Hi Owen, we loved your video and it couldn’t have been more timely. We ordered the same Lion lithium batteries from Costco for our 2016 Pleasure Way Lexor TS. They arrived yesterday and My husband Steve replaced the old lead acid batteries last evening. It was a fairly simple process, but Steve wants to know, since you are keeping your AGMs, are you isolating the lithium batteries from them and not connecting them together? Also what monitor are you using to show the percent of charge on the new batteries? As always, we love watching your videos and look forward to each one.
Watching this a second time, it occurs to me that you didn't upgrade the inverter. When I called Battle Born to get an idea of what was involved in adding a couple of lithiums to our 2020.5 G, he recommended a 3000 W inverter so we could use it to run the AC occasionally if we need to go out and leave the pup in the van on a hot day. Just curious without the inverter upgrade how much you were able to power, assuming that you retained the original 1000w that came with the Travato. Could you run a coffee pot, for example? The m'wave? (Oh, you removed yours, didn't you?) an electric blanket all night? (I know that you've moved on to the Revel now, but curious how much your upgrade powered - Or did you say you upgraded the inverter and I get distracted and somehow miss that part?) thx!
Hi Trish. We stayed with the 1,000-watt inverter with our initial purchase. It was enough to do all the things you mentioned except the A/C. We always ran the generator with the A/C running when we needed to leave Maggie in the van when it was too hot. BTW, you know me well... I do get distracted. But no we planned to upgrade eventually to a 2000w inverter but never really planned to create a bank of batteries big enough for a/c usage on batteries. Our main goal was to get at least 200 amp hours of usage at night so fans and other things didn’t drain the battery so far that there wasn’t enough power in the mornings to make coffee. We succeeded at that goal but my DIY install decisions were flawed for sure. Good luck with it. Reach out if you find you need help. BTW, the easiest, simplest and most likely to succeed upgrade is just replacing the AGM batteries with the new Battle Born cold weather lithiums. You can leave them out in the cold and they still work. So just remove the AGMs and bolt the lithiums in the battery box and change the charge controller to use the lithium profile and you’re done. These were not available when I made the change or I would have done that for sure. Hope this helps. Owen
Surprised the camper vans don’t come with back up cameras. Have to have a good stereo when road tripping. Dam trip? Are you going on a tour of dams? That should be interesting!
I’m buying a Thor Tellaro , also a Promaster with AGM batteries. I will definitely be upgrading to your system but will have to pay for installation, do you have any idea what a fair price for the install would be ?ive always felt that all the high ticket upgrades could be done after purchasing the base rig. Safe travels 👍
Great rig you’re getting. If you can get a version with it lithium pre-installed we now believe that’s the way to go. The batteries are relatively easy to swap out but the systems that support it not so much. To really be out there and not have to worry about power you need a second alternator that quickly recharges those lithiums. You can make the on-board alternator will charge your lithiums, but much slower and like us you’ll probably wish for a faster, more reliable charge. If you watch our current videos you’ll see we changed to a lithium equipped Revel and those supporting systems installed at the factory make a world of difference. There are a few folks who install after-market upgrades to the Promasters and they are worth searching for and reaching out to. Knowledge of your van is power too but swapping out lithium for AGM is not for the timid for sure. Good luck & CONGRATS!!! Bet you’re like a kid on Christmas Eve! 👍
Sometimes it’s cheaper to keep her. As I look at my 95 S-10 😂 Lets see a little more detail on those added lithium batteries. Hope they work out well. Have a safe dam trip ✌🏼
Your Amazon store link isn't clickable. Please add the https or whatever is needed to make it easy on old folks like me. ;) Thanks. ♥️ To Maggie, Lynn and you 🐾
No it doesn’t tie in.. there’s a separate screen. It’s not made anymore though. I think there’s a newer model… just make sure the cable to the back camera is long enough and any of them would be better than the Ram screen.
Hey guys.. It’s in our Amazon store at www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle.... but we’ll talk about it in more detail in this week’s Q&A on Sunday.
By watching your story, we are thinking to buy Travato too, how long it takes for your Van came to your hand after the order was placed? I am sure today it might need much longer.
I'm studying making a similar change to my 2019K model, and I have a couple of questions. I think I've learned that the PD9200 series charge controller that is standard in our rig stops charging after the battery gets to 13.8 volts, so it never gets to 14.4 volts (i.e. fully charged). Similarly, the engine alternator can't get above about 13.9 volts. Have you experienced these limitations? Did you get a different smart charger? Thanks.
You are correct. The charge controller can charge higher but that would “boil” the AGM batteries. So the compromise for safety’s sake right now is to leave the controller thinking it’s charging AGMs still. Maybe one day we’ll upgrade the other two batteries, bring them inside too and upgrade the other components. But honestly, so far the upgrade as is more than doubled our available amp hours for use, which means we can run fans all night and not have to start the engine or generator to make coffee in the morning... something we could not do for sure in the past. Good luck with your research and purchase. If we can help just ask.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thanks so much for the reply! I forgot to ask if you put in some kind of state of charge gauge. Voltage alone, as on the current gauge, doesn't tell you when lithium batteries are about to make the rapid plunge to discharged. We will probably make the changeover in the spring, as the end of this season (and van "storage" time) is creeping closer. BTW, ours is a 2018... 2019 was a typo. Thanks again. John and Pam
Owen, can you share more information for the backup camera and mirror please thank you so much Update: I bought the backup camera mirror. specific questions, where/how did you mount the back camera? Inside or outside? Also, how did you run the wires from front to back. Im hoping this system will give me the visibility that I want. Sure wished Ram/Travato will include a driver assist system in the vehicle.
Hi Pati. I did not use the mounting hardware. I mounted it to the underneath side of the Travato backup camera. Did not connect the reverse light red cable ether since we wanted it on all the time. rand the wires in the rain gutter over to the corner of the passenger rear door. Ran it under the molding there and inside. Then temporarily ran it in rear K closet, around the top to the cabinets... the wire fit in the gap of the cabinets and ceiling so that’s where it went... then to the back of the black over door shelf... then under edge of headliner to get it to the mirror. Not the cleanest, most perfect install but it works for now. Hope that helps.
This camera wire is driving me crazy! Lol. So you ran inside the black box (housing for OEM cam) and through the "door side" of the van to the front? Not sure what you mean by rain gutter. This video got me started down the mirror rabbit whole and I can't wait till I figure out the wire install.
I’ve been known to do dam trips but I’m an old Civil Engineer! 😉 Good for you on your Li upgrade. That with take the anxiety out of dry camping and really add to your enjoyment of every moment. Now to work out how to charge your E-Bikes while dry camping.
So you’re a CE!!! How awesome! Yeah, those eBike batteries suck in some juice. Right now we charge them while we’re driving unless we need to add a ton of recharging on the main batteries. Worth the problem though for sure. The Li batteries are a great addition that we love already... especially since I figured out to move the cable over to the + post before the relay. Much better now.
JUST what I’m looking at doing! I have GL envy - and we have only had our Travato 6 months (with only 5 nights in it because of Covid lockdown!) The Volta models were just too expensive, but I emailed Battle Born 2 weeks ago and they sent me a list of what I would need. They recommended a couple of installers whom I’ve contacted. (It’s something I know my husband could do easily, but we are out of the house and into a condo. Just nowhere to set up to do things like that.) But your Costco battery prices are certainly intriguing. I’m new to all of this, so I’ve never heard of Lion. The price would certainly make a Costco membership pay for itself. (We haven’t been a members for 20 years because I think we save money by not doing all the impulse purchasing that one tends to do, “Oh! Look! We can get 20 chamois!” “But we only need one.” “ Yes, but this is such a bargain!“) But I’ve always said that I would re-join if there were something particularly pricey that was super cheap. And it would be a good time to get rid of the stupid drawers under our Murphy bed. Annoying that they did away with the shelving and sliders. The drawers hold so little and have so much dead space. One question - can you run your air conditioner with two lithium batteries and the AGMs? BB told me we would need three lithium plus a 3000W converter for that. My plan was initially to take out the AGMs and drop the BBs in their place. But if we need a third, that means we’ll have to do some retrofitting where you did. Thanks!
Catherine Short I decided to pass on them. I did some noodling around and they don’t seem to have a great reputation compared to Battle Born. I suppose you get what you pay for. And I’m not ready to make the plunge anyway. But thanks for the info! They were certainly worth looking at and probably work fine.
He’s no gentleman. HAHA .. Actually is... we talked to him about that and Utah might be in the plans for October. At some point though you can put some much into this thing that we could never part with it and get something newer. Both a good and bad thing! Thanks for sharing the video with us.
I would not connect AGM and Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries to the same charging system without some sort of isolation and also a charging system for the Lithium batteries. AGM and Lithium batteries have different charging profiles, plus a Lithium battery will take as much current as you feed it, so you may need a DC to DC charger between your alternator output and the Lithium battery bank. Otherwise your alternate might be damaged at some point if batteries pull too many amp like during idle. I would recommend something like a Renogy DCC50S, which also includes an MPPT solar charge controller for if in the future you want to add some solar panels (suitcase portable or roof mounted) for boondocking, but there are many brands. If your RV has a charge controller for Lithium than disregard that part above, but definitely don't put AGM and Lithium on the same charging circuit in parallel. Love your channel.
Steve Colby The AGM were DOA and were replaced with lithium.
@@herdfan697278 At 5:02 in the video, he says: "we're ready to have 210 Amp hours of lithium power, but we also kept the 200 Amp hours of AGM".....AGMs are still being used/charged.
Drove out to Indiana this Spring where Scott G. converted my van to BB lithium power with all the nice add-ons to go with it. Absolutely love the improvement, and the chance to spend time with these amazing people!
This is one of my favorite Vantrekking videos of all!
Like the "clean shave look"!
Thanks for the Michelin tire tip Owen, we'll keep it in mind. Our van came with Nexen Radian CT8 tires. We just got back from a few weeks travelling B.C. and Alberta. We had a wonderful time with lots of great rides along the way!
The Michelin really made a difference on the quietness of the ride. Sounds like you had a wonderful trip. Be safe and stay healthy.
How exciting! New trip, new lithium batteries and I get new videos to look forward to this week ♥️
Upgrading is certainly less expensive than new. Wise choice.
Love the back up camera mirror can you tell me where you got it I have the same rv thanks
I, too, wish he had said what make it was!
The Right Stuff Owen! Apollo 13 mission control would be proud of you!
Thank you !! I like your back up camera . Make and model I would like to know for my RV van .
Enjoy another great video . Be safe and be kind .
We have it in our amazon store on the inside section, it should provide all the information you need. It has been a great purchase. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Owen, we changed out our AGM batteries for lithium last winter, but also swapped our charge controller for an MPPT controller at the same time. This combo has worked flawlessly so far. I can and do keep my overhead fan on temperature control at 85 degrees as the Travato sits in the Florida sun. It keeps the interior cooler and the single 100 watt panel on the roof keeps those lithium batteries topped off as well! I was glad you moved your lithium inside for protection from road heat and debris. My installer did however sever my TV antenna power. No problem, we don’t watch T. V. anyway on the road. My guess is you are heading to Hoover Dam. Safe travels! We plan to head out next month for points north. See on the road perhaps?
herdfan697278 I’m in Florida too. Can you recommend a place that can install my batteries? I bought the same ones from Costco and there’s no way I can install them. I can’t even get them off my porch😁 I have a T - 2019K Thank you.
I wish I could. One thing to try would be finding a reliable remote RV tech. We’ve used them a bunch in the past and have always been very happy with them.
I’ve got a Promaster with lithium batteries. I love the system. And I love your channel. I’m interested in your new backup camera. “Do what excites you a lot and scares you a little” Way to grow!
Very nice upgrades. Enjoy
Thanks 👍
Lithium is a great upgrade to any RV. Way to go guys so happy for you. Cheers!!!
I’m the first like 😀. Thanks for the videos! We use to have the Winnebago Paseo. We upgraded to the 2020 coachman beyond lithium. Love it! We only had it since February but we never worry about the batteries so much anymore. Thanks for sharing your journeys! 👍
That's the ticket for boondocking....a lot cheaper than a new revel....ready to see your dam videos!
Hey guys! Missed connecting with you too and planning “almost” meetups! I'm looking hard at a new Solis next spring so may be back on the road and run into sometime. Part-time traveler this time; enjoy having a base and unlimited hot water showers too much to give that up again!
I’d be nervous about taking a hole saw to the floor like you did, except for the fact that we’ve already got the same hole under the driver’s side bed anyway lol. Drill away, aye aye sir!
Good plan guys! With the prices of new Class B's right now, which is outrageous, you made a wise decision to upgrade your current van. You'll enjoy the lithium batteries. I know we do. I like the new back up camera too. I'm with you, our Dodge van Aktiv's camera sucks. Might be something we do in a year or two.
Great video. Can you please list or add a link to the back-up cam you used. That looks great and I could really use something like that.
That camera has come and gone. Here’s one that looks like it is even better. www.amazon.com/dp/B08DNLHGWR?ref=exp_vantrekkinglifestyle_dp_vv_d
Thankyou for sharing great information
Wow!!! Those were some impressive updates. Michelins are the best! I love the backup camera...what a cool idea (in the mirror)! You have some mad skills being able to put in the lithium batteries yourself! Can't wait for the trip! Headed toward Fontana? My Granddaddy was in the CCC group at Topton. The year before he died (unexpectedly), our family went up there and toured the dam and located his old CCC camp. It was so cool for him to be able to share about that experience with us. I hope you guys have a wonderful trip...looking forward to see where you're taking us! Tell Lynn and Maggie we said, "Hi!" and missed seeing them. ❤️Jane in SC.
I’m so excited, my lion lithium batteries arrived today 😁. Omgosh they’re heavy! I had to leave them on the porch. Will you host a video of your install? I’d really like to see it. Thank you so much for your videos, they really help me. I bought “Zelda” my 2019 K model after watching your videos. I have only had her a month and I found your video last week about being in a rut extremely helpful. I’m kinda Afraid of driving her on the highway and I drive back roads to avoid them. I’m definitely going to order the mirror camera so I can see what’s going on behind me. Thanks for making these videos I really enjoy them.
Yes! Would love a video of the lithium install!!!
Always enjoy your videos! As you talked through the issues I was laughing because my thought process works just like yours! New is always fun for a while, but tweeking what you already own can be more satisfying. Safe journey!
PS Thanks for the tip on the backup camera. We already think ours is garbage.
Nothing like riding on new tires. Your new back up camera is really nice. The lithium batteries are a huge addition. You are making some really great upgrades. Can't wait to see your next dam video. Haha!
Amen to new tires!!! Man!!! What a difference! Li batteries are a game changer too. Hope you enjoyed the series.
sounds like the upgrades were going to work out on this upcoming trip. We look forward to seeing what comes along. Happy and safe travels.
Great suggestions! We’ve learned so much from you this past year as new Travato owners. Hope our paths cross someday!
I was hoping you were going to get the revel so we could buy your Travato. We are looking for a good used one and prices now seem to be nuts. The mirror-mounted backup camera looks fantastic I would enjoy a whole video on that alone.
Great video. Smart option to keep and upgrade what you have. As a solo traveler needing to maintain and run a generator had me researching for options. Always have loved the Travato K models but the L while it made sense seemed out of reach. Have found a K layout option with lithium I could do. Just waiting for it to be built be safe out there and I so enjoy watching both of you and your videos. You’re good people!
Thank you for the awesome info on your updates! Our own Travato 59K doesn't arrive till December, we wanted to KL but just out of price range. Your lithium upgrade may just be the way for us. Also, video mirror seems like a terrific upgrade. Looking forward to your updates, keep up the great video content!
Hi Bill, when did you place the order for your Travato?
@@EasyChineseFood Hi May Lynn, we placed the order about 2 weeks ago. Dealer said Dec delivery on all Travato's, wish it didn't take so long, but using the down time for lots of research and great TH-cam content like this one!
That is awesome that you’re getting a new 59K. Can’t wait to hear about your adventures with it.
Good for you guys have a safe trip.
Thank you guys!!
I'm so jealous. I really want lithium batteries. I know I will eventually get some. I also want to get solar. I have portable suitcases but I'd love to also have solar on my roof. You must be travelling to a dam somewhere. Safe travels and stay healthy!
Yes... to a dam but you know that already now... we are super late in answering comments. We need to get a suitcase panel to add to our solar so we can park in shade and still charge. Li batteries make a HUGE difference and well worth the money.
Hmmm...you might want to double check using the two different types of batteries-not suppose have both. 🧨🔥 Very nice upgrades 🚌🚐
Once again, Thank you for the video and information...Going on the dam trip ?
Thanks for your comments on the Michelin Cross Climates. We have been looking at those for the replacement of our OEM Nexen tires. Your solution for added lithium capacity cost a lot less than the upgrade to a KL Travato. It may be more reliable too. Our KL is still having trouble charging and Winnebago is still having trouble figuring out the problem. Do your lithium batteries recharge while you are driving? If so, how long does it take for them to recharge from something like 30%?
Hi Lynn, Owen & Maggie! We have been watching you three for awhile now and absolutely love your adventures. We found our Travato rearview mirror lacking as well, and were wondering if you were going to post how you installed your new Pormido mirror? Was it difficult? Safe travels home.
Not planning to do a video on it but we can walk you through installing if you need us to. We ran the cable in under the passenger side rear door, through the back cabinet, inside the bed cabinets and under the headliner to the mirror. Bet the whole thing didn’t take 15 minutes. Great addition. Let us know if you get one and need help installing.
Love! Happy travels in your dam trip! Would love to know what back up camera that was installed. It’s awesome
We are loving the backup camera... here’s the link to our Amazon page, it in the inside section. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Exciting updates!!! As a fellow Travato owner with much the same concerns, we have. 2016 G), I’m really interested in what you’re doing!!!
I was hoping to find the link to that mirror camera in the description so that I could check it out! Darn... not there!
The backup camera is on our Amazon page in the inside section. Here’s the link to our page. It’s been a great addition. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Thanks for sharing . I’m interested on the Lion Lithum battery add on . But are you keeping the older AGM ? To work together with the Lithum? Just curious on how you’ll get them charged up ? Will the batteries run your a/c ? Thanks for sharing.
I love your channel- never miss a Sunday! My husband is interested in the rear view mirror. He would like to know what brand is it and who sells it. We pull a small trailer with our suv. Would it work for us? Thank you
I can't really comment because I have not seen the set up. But in my experience it's a very bad idea to mix batteries with different charging profiles. Good luck and happy tails.
Yes, I am a bit concerned about that and wondering how you handle the different charging profiles?
From everything we’ve read as long as we keep the AGM profile for charging the batteries should be fine.... not ideal but many have kept the AGMs and added the lithium with no problems. We are giving up some of the faster charging capabilities of the two lithium’s and we’re maybe giving up a little of the top end of the capacity but until the AGMs give up the ghost I think it’s a good compromise. We’ll see though.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Good luck! Happy tails
Hey Owen, I know it’s been awhile since you’ve done the lithium upgrade to your Travato…but I just purchased a used 2017k and was wanting to add a SOK 206ah lithium battery instead of the two Lion Energy batteries that you used. My question is about the cabling. Do you have a video showing the cabling and what you used? I’m guessing you used the 1.0 gauge cable? In your video you said you connected it to the wrong side of the isolation relay? To my understanding, one side of the isolation relay goes to the chassis battery and the other to the coach battery? I’m guessing you connect the positive to the coach side? Does the negative side go to the chassis ground? Sorry to bother you about Travato stuff since now you’re off and running in your new van for over a year now…but I still enjoy watching your videos! Thanks for your time and help…keep having fun and continue posting the great videos! Take it easy, Steve
Those SOK 206 batteries are pretty cool! Yes, used 1.0 gauge cable. The connection point is actually on the passenger side of the relay. I chose the wrong one to begin with. Good luck with the project.
Hi Owen, we loved your video and it couldn’t have been more timely. We ordered the same Lion lithium batteries from Costco for our 2016 Pleasure Way Lexor TS. They arrived yesterday and My husband Steve replaced the old lead acid batteries last evening. It was a fairly simple process, but Steve wants to know, since you are keeping your AGMs, are you isolating the lithium batteries from them and not connecting them together? Also what monitor are you using to show the percent of charge on the new batteries? As always, we love watching your videos and look forward to each one.
Watching this a second time, it occurs to me that you didn't upgrade the inverter. When I called Battle Born to get an idea of what was involved in adding a couple of lithiums to our 2020.5 G, he recommended a 3000 W inverter so we could use it to run the AC occasionally if we need to go out and leave the pup in the van on a hot day. Just curious without the inverter upgrade how much you were able to power, assuming that you retained the original 1000w that came with the Travato. Could you run a coffee pot, for example? The m'wave? (Oh, you removed yours, didn't you?) an electric blanket all night?
(I know that you've moved on to the Revel now, but curious how much your upgrade powered - Or did you say you upgraded the inverter and I get distracted and somehow miss that part?) thx!
Hi Trish. We stayed with the 1,000-watt inverter with our initial purchase. It was enough to do all the things you mentioned except the A/C. We always ran the generator with the A/C running when we needed to leave Maggie in the van when it was too hot. BTW, you know me well... I do get distracted. But no we planned to upgrade eventually to a 2000w inverter but never really planned to create a bank of batteries big enough for a/c usage on batteries. Our main goal was to get at least 200 amp hours of usage at night so fans and other things didn’t drain the battery so far that there wasn’t enough power in the mornings to make coffee. We succeeded at that goal but my DIY install decisions were flawed for sure. Good luck with it. Reach out if you find you need help. BTW, the easiest, simplest and most likely to succeed upgrade is just replacing the AGM batteries with the new Battle Born cold weather lithiums. You can leave them out in the cold and they still work. So just remove the AGMs and bolt the lithiums in the battery box and change the charge controller to use the lithium profile and you’re done. These were not available when I made the change or I would have done that for sure. Hope this helps. Owen
Surprised the camper vans don’t come with back up cameras. Have to have a good stereo when road tripping. Dam trip? Are you going on a tour of dams? That should be interesting!
I’m buying a Thor Tellaro , also a Promaster with AGM batteries. I will definitely be upgrading to your system but will have to pay for installation, do you have any idea what a fair price for the install would be ?ive always felt that all the high ticket upgrades could be done after purchasing the base rig. Safe travels 👍
Great rig you’re getting. If you can get a version with it lithium pre-installed we now believe that’s the way to go. The batteries are relatively easy to swap out but the systems that support it not so much. To really be out there and not have to worry about power you need a second alternator that quickly recharges those lithiums. You can make the on-board alternator will charge your lithiums, but much slower and like us you’ll probably wish for a faster, more reliable charge. If you watch our current videos you’ll see we changed to a lithium equipped Revel and those supporting systems installed at the factory make a world of difference. There are a few folks who install after-market upgrades to the Promasters and they are worth searching for and reaching out to. Knowledge of your van is power too but swapping out lithium for AGM is not for the timid for sure. Good luck & CONGRATS!!! Bet you’re like a kid on Christmas Eve! 👍
Sometimes it’s cheaper to keep her. As I look at my 95 S-10 😂 Lets see a little more detail on those added lithium batteries. Hope they work out well. Have a safe dam trip ✌🏼
It’s “cheaper to keep ‘er” in all walks of life. We’ll talk about the lithium batteries in a little more detail in this week’s Q&A on Sunday.
What kind of backup camera system did you add and how hard was it to install? Enjoy your videos!
Your Amazon store link isn't clickable. Please add the https or whatever is needed to make it easy on old folks like me. ;)
Thanks. ♥️ To Maggie, Lynn and you 🐾
Thanks for bringing that to our attention, we will fix that. Here’s the link for now. www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle
Link to rear view camera? Tie in to Travato camera?
No it doesn’t tie in.. there’s a separate screen. It’s not made anymore though. I think there’s a newer model… just make sure the cable to the back camera is long enough and any of them would be better than the Ram screen.
Did the dealership add the batteries? I read about a guy that bought them at a Tesla dealership. I want to do this on the model we are buying.
I see with your new lithium batteries you can use your electric razor. Lynn must think that's the best part of the whole expense.
It is a plus for sure.
What is the make of the back-up mirror you talk about? Where can I get information? Thanks!
The back-up mirror is a wonderful addition. I would like to see my kayak trailer while traveling.I am also interested in the make. Thank-you!
Me as well. More information on the mirror set up please?
Hey guys.. It’s in our Amazon store at www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle.... but we’ll talk about it in more detail in this week’s Q&A on Sunday.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thanks for the link! I did manage to find it and typed it in.
By watching your story, we are thinking to buy Travato too, how long it takes for your Van came to your hand after the order was placed? I am sure today it might need much longer.
I ordered a 2022 59KL last month. It will be here in May. There are mayor changes from the 2021 Travato.
I'm studying making a similar change to my 2019K model, and I have a couple of questions. I think I've learned that the PD9200 series charge controller that is standard in our rig stops charging after the battery gets to 13.8 volts, so it never gets to 14.4 volts (i.e. fully charged). Similarly, the engine alternator can't get above about 13.9 volts. Have you experienced these limitations? Did you get a different smart charger? Thanks.
You are correct. The charge controller can charge higher but that would “boil” the AGM batteries. So the compromise for safety’s sake right now is to leave the controller thinking it’s charging AGMs still. Maybe one day we’ll upgrade the other two batteries, bring them inside too and upgrade the other components. But honestly, so far the upgrade as is more than doubled our available amp hours for use, which means we can run fans all night and not have to start the engine or generator to make coffee in the morning... something we could not do for sure in the past. Good luck with your research and purchase. If we can help just ask.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thanks so much for the reply! I forgot to ask if you put in some kind of state of charge gauge. Voltage alone, as on the current gauge, doesn't tell you when lithium batteries are about to make the rapid plunge to discharged.
We will probably make the changeover in the spring, as the end of this season (and van "storage" time) is creeping closer. BTW, ours is a 2018... 2019 was a typo. Thanks again.
John and Pam
Yes we put in Victron BMV-712. It is awesome btw.
You should install a safe ; if you haven’t done so already.
Owen, can you share more information for the backup camera and mirror please thank you so much
Update: I bought the backup camera mirror. specific questions, where/how did you mount the back camera? Inside or outside? Also, how did you run the wires from front to back. Im hoping this system will give me the visibility that I want. Sure wished Ram/Travato will include a driver assist system in the vehicle.
Hi Pati. I did not use the mounting hardware. I mounted it to the underneath side of the Travato backup camera. Did not connect the reverse light red cable ether since we wanted it on all the time. rand the wires in the rain gutter over to the corner of the passenger rear door. Ran it under the molding there and inside. Then temporarily ran it in rear K closet, around the top to the cabinets... the wire fit in the gap of the cabinets and ceiling so that’s where it went... then to the back of the black over door shelf... then under edge of headliner to get it to the mirror. Not the cleanest, most perfect install but it works for now. Hope that helps.
This camera wire is driving me crazy! Lol. So you ran inside the black box (housing for OEM cam) and through the "door side" of the van to the front? Not sure what you mean by rain gutter. This video got me started down the mirror rabbit whole and I can't wait till I figure out the wire install.
On the “damn” side...damn it, you’re beating me to punch on most of these. Especially that piece of crap radio and camera. 😂
I’ve been known to do dam trips but I’m an old Civil Engineer! 😉 Good for you on your Li upgrade. That with take the anxiety out of dry camping and really add to your enjoyment of every moment. Now to work out how to charge your E-Bikes while dry camping.
So you’re a CE!!! How awesome! Yeah, those eBike batteries suck in some juice. Right now we charge them while we’re driving unless we need to add a ton of recharging on the main batteries. Worth the problem though for sure. The Li batteries are a great addition that we love already... especially since I figured out to move the cable over to the + post before the relay. Much better now.
JUST what I’m looking at doing! I have GL envy - and we have only had our Travato 6 months (with only 5 nights in it because of Covid lockdown!) The Volta models were just too expensive, but I emailed Battle Born 2 weeks ago and they sent me a list of what I would need. They recommended a couple of installers whom I’ve contacted. (It’s something I know my husband could do easily, but we are out of the house and into a condo. Just nowhere to set up to do things like that.) But your Costco battery prices are certainly intriguing. I’m new to all of this, so I’ve never heard of Lion. The price would certainly make a Costco membership pay for itself. (We haven’t been a members for 20 years because I think we save money by not doing all the impulse purchasing that one tends to do, “Oh! Look! We can get 20 chamois!” “But we only need one.” “ Yes, but this is such a bargain!“) But I’ve always said that I would re-join if there were something particularly pricey that was super cheap.
And it would be a good time to get rid of the stupid drawers under our Murphy bed. Annoying that they did away with the shelving and sliders. The drawers hold so little and have so much dead space.
One question - can you run your air conditioner with two lithium batteries and the AGMs? BB told me we would need three lithium plus a 3000W converter for that. My plan was initially to take out the AGMs and drop the BBs in their place. But if we need a third, that means we’ll have to do some retrofitting where you did. Thanks!
Trish Benedict I bought the batteries last week and they came today. The price is great but FYI it’s a sale I believe it ends next week.
Catherine Short I decided to pass on them. I did some noodling around and they don’t seem to have a great reputation compared to Battle Born. I suppose you get what you pay for. And I’m not ready to make the plunge anyway. But thanks for the info! They were certainly worth looking at and probably work fine.
Stick with the Battle Born!!
th-cam.com/video/KRe9TWEEoI0/w-d-xo.html
Where has Lynn been in the last few intros. Is she okay
Lynn is well and good, thanks for asking.
Think about doing what this gentleman did to his Travato: th-cam.com/video/dLaB9aYx0QY/w-d-xo.html
He’s no gentleman. HAHA .. Actually is... we talked to him about that and Utah might be in the plans for October. At some point though you can put some much into this thing that we could never part with it and get something newer. Both a good and bad thing! Thanks for sharing the video with us.