Moving Trailer Batteries Inside with Vents

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
  • Tired of the problems with batteries on the tongue of the trailer, I moved mine inside. This video explains why, and how to vent your batteries as well.
    NOTE Sept 2021: This video was made several years ago when deep cycle lead-acid batteries were the most popular type. Lithium batteries were extremely expensive at the time. No venting is required for lithium.
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    Disclaimer: I am not an expert on anything! Use your own judgment as to whether you have the right tools and abilities, and if this works for you. Proper maintenance is a must. Safety first!

ความคิดเห็น • 208

  • @Rhythmfiddle
    @Rhythmfiddle 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Impressive and nicely done as usual . We've always used AGM batteries which didn't require venting... but then on our Aliner, we never had it sealed as tightly as you have yours... Fair weather campers !

  • @jimmypage4162
    @jimmypage4162 5 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    I don’t understand why anyone would give this guy a thumbs down... awesome videos always relaxes me after a days work to watch this guy

    • @desertdweller9255
      @desertdweller9255 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      They probably just had fat fingers and accidentally pressed it. Only logical answer lol

    • @Tom-In-Ga
      @Tom-In-Ga 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I know this is a little old but the only thing I can think that would make someone give a thumbs down is that the venting system is kind of useless unless the battery boxes are sealed. Slim did seal the small vents on the battery box tops but those tops are open at four points to let the battery cables through. And, even if they were closed off, the edges would need some kind of gasket around the box top to make it air tight. That said, I myself used Slim's method to make my own vented battery box and gave Slim a hardy thumbs up for the video.

    • @casparv
      @casparv 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Giving a video a thumb down is a good way of letting TH-cam know it shouldn't suggest you videos with a similar topic. Having only 1% of the thumbs down is pretty darn good!

  • @brodie1709
    @brodie1709 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Why did you use a 90° bend instead of just drilling the hole directly below the pipe and have it go straight up to the large vent pipe?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Easy removal. Just rotate the larger pipe and the branches move clear to access the terminals. SP

  • @barryoram7832
    @barryoram7832 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Keep in mind balance, you adding additional weight on the side, could cause a uneven wear and tracking. I would never install batteries on the inside, I've see a battery short out and explode.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hi Barry, I actually needed more weight on that side as I don't use the water tank. With proper venting and secure connections I consider the risk is very low of any explosions. More risk from using propane and 110v outlets in a trailer! Thanks

  • @karinhart489
    @karinhart489 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thx for more good ideas. I hope you'll give us a mini update in a year on how those battery boxes & vent pipe is doing after traveling to all your cool 😎 camping spots. Maybe road conditions in Canada are better, but roadways in the US are in poor shape. Also, did you have to redo any wiring, or were you able to just reuse your solar storage battery wiring for both? Did you install some sort of cutoff switch for your batteries (thinking ghost battery hogs like those gas/propane leak detectors that kill batteries when parked between camping trips)?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Karin, for sure I will update as I travel. I will be on those awful US roads shortly! Wiring was just shortened, and new MC4 connectors for the solar. No cutoff needed, as solar keeps battery fully charged when not in use (stored outside). Thanks!

    • @marymichaels5434
      @marymichaels5434 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I76u

  • @polarlab113
    @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    why not use flex hose for the inside venting save a whole lot of messing around.and makes it very easy for maintenance of the batteries

  • @asherstanton4561
    @asherstanton4561 6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    You might put another propane bottle on front. Two batteries more propane. Ready for the apocalypse and better balance for towing.

  • @mwinner101
    @mwinner101 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Entertaining video. 👍 Also, the know-it-alls in the comments are fun to read too.

  • @russellhancock9765
    @russellhancock9765 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I think You will get slightly more power out of Your batteries in the warm camper.

  • @uwekedv
    @uwekedv 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I've been watching your videos for a while, they're just wonderful, and in high quality.
    Incidentally, I use for the video editing "Sony Vegas" here there is also a simple version for about $ 50
    I also used a trailer years ago.
    At that time, there were no solar panels or charge controllers for $ 10.
    What surprised me, in your car is a generator with high power, but unused for the trailer. This was also me Problem. Here I have thought about how I can operate my 100W refrigerator while driving.
    In addition, I come from the electrical profession and basically can calculate everything.
    One of the problems to be solved was that the 8m to the trailer battery are much too long, for thin (normal) lines. The second problem was that the 100W is so much power that the engine has to run to not remove the power from the car battery.
    Solution:
    A car Relay - 30 amp with built-in fuse (or extra) . This relay has been connected to the ignition coil, so that it is the first problem solving, it is only active if the engine is running.
    Before the line goes on, another 300 Amp diode and a shunt (Special Resistor) for an Ampere meter were added.
    The second problem was easier to solve, I pulled a thick 16mm² (AWG 5 or 4 ) wire from the relay, behind of the diode, to the socket for the trailer, all the way through the whole car.
    There I made another high current plug connection to the trailer. Here, the fridge was supplied by 12 V and 100W while driving.
    You could improve this circuit with new electronics to load the Trailerbattery and so on..., but maybe it's an idea that is especially useful for campers who are more driving than staying in one same place.
    For the circuit in the car, if necessary, consult a car electrician.
    For Details i can draw a Circurit.

  • @davesimpson2814
    @davesimpson2814 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    nice video, but I would think that you would slope the pipe outside to allow any moisture that accumulated to to drain out side, any gases would still vent

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Hi Dave. Hmmm, that's a thought. Easy to tweak. I am planning a long road trip, so I'll see how much moisture I get and if a little adjustment is needed. Thanks!

    • @Robyrob7771
      @Robyrob7771 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I know I’m late. My Chalet had the battery inside from the factory and had venting in the bottom as well as the top for cross venting the box. Hydrogen won’t fully vent if you don’t allow air back in, is the theory.

    • @DenverLoveless
      @DenverLoveless 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Robyrob7771 The space for the wires in the lid of the battery box seems to accomplish that bottom flow.

  • @ynotjf
    @ynotjf 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice looking installation but a question; your battery boxes are NOT airtight? They flare-out in the corners to allow the battery cables a way out of the box, the hydrogen gas you are trying to vent can also escape through these wide areas. You may have been better to simply vent the entire compartment under the cushion (no need for plumbing) allowing the hydrogen to accumulate in the entire compartment then vent out the top in the vent you installed.

  • @pmartin924
    @pmartin924 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Fantastic video, just what I needed to know before moving my batteries inside the trailer.

  • @johnmansfield5176
    @johnmansfield5176 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Slim, your a genius. I will do the same. Thank you!

  • @cyberi4a
    @cyberi4a 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You're so smart to come up with this stuff and you've done to many changes so far. Anything else left to do? The tongue space is to small for a Jacuzzi, but I'll know you find some way to install one some day....LOL

  • @supersami7748
    @supersami7748 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Good video. However, working in that industry I can tell you that corrosion happens no matter where the batteries are or how much you try and maintain them. As you may already know at some point you need to spring for a AGM battery. No venting necessary, mount in any position, no aliens stuff growing on the terminals and their discharge rate is minimum compared to a wet cell.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thanks Super Sami. I now have an AGM battery, just haven't had the opportunity to put it in a video. Probably in my next solar update. SP

    • @davebenoit5388
      @davebenoit5388 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      AGM still need to be vented.

    • @3434abab
      @3434abab 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dave Benoit no!

  • @NewtonWashinton
    @NewtonWashinton 6 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Hi Slim, Great idea with moving your battery inside and professional install, the gasses will move out irregardless of the pipe angle and gasses are only produced during charging, I would have made the 1.5" pipe slightly upward to prevent water coming in. Slim you are very innovative and possess a lot of common sense. Well done!

    • @marymichaels5434
      @marymichaels5434 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Iuuu

    • @TheBigExclusive
      @TheBigExclusive 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think the outdoor Lourve vent slats will prevent water from coming inside.

  • @rickrangel
    @rickrangel 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    @Slim Potatohead Wow! Your a genius, an absolute genius. Thank you so very much in sharing your video. Makes my life easier. 🙂

  • @raykiii
    @raykiii 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    And a second propane bottle like the new trails have?

  • @jeffreydeans7097
    @jeffreydeans7097 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    When I mounted my battery inside I did it for two reasons, one was to keep it warm in winter to get more amp hours out of it, but mainly to allow for two bike racks on the tongue. For the battery I purchased an AGM deep cycle and it only charges through my very good MPPT solar charge controller, even when in tow via a 12 to 19volt 8amp converter that swaps from solar panels to car when in tow. AGM's will not off gas so long as the charger does no wrong. For balance my battery is just behind and inside of the door side (right side) wheel well. It helps balance my trailer left to right, and being as close to the axle as I could get it does not impact the balance so much or stress the frame. The balance is affected by taking a 70 lb battery off the tongue, which is put back in balance by 70ish lbs of bikes and racks.
    On the tongue I switched to twin 11 lb propane tanks and moved them forward to battery location, and the bike racks are where the propane tanks were. I have an old pair of Yakima roof rack mounted bike racks, with some aluminum tubing they now easily bolt and unbolt to the tongue. The bikes stay low and in view when I am towing, and do not not interfere with the roof. I may try to mount a hitch mount bike rack so that when I want to leave the trailer and take the bikes I can more easily transplant a hitch mount rack to the car than the roof rack mounts. Also its not easy getting a bike on top of my Subaru Outback, the new ones are quite a bit taller than the older models. In Winter I was thinking the space on the tongue could be used for my small generator and fuel. Thus far I have not had issue with just my 100 amp hour battery and 200 watts of solar panel, even winter camping. But I have been "lucky" to have only winter camped in my Aliner in really cold weather, which means clear skies.... and 13+ amps charging current off solar.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Jeffrey. I managed to mount the bike yesterday, but will not release a video until it's been given a good road test. Still have spot where the battery was on the tongue, which I'm thinking of putting a gas can painted black to hold water. That way I can get warm water anytime I'm out in a hot sunny day.

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      what stress could it be?its only 30 pounds.the beer in your fridge weighs more than that.

  • @stringstorm
    @stringstorm 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'd like to suggest adding a fan! Maybe just a small little 80mm 5v fan to help with the ventilation!

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally unnecessary. Hydrogen rises (what little there is). SP

  • @michaeltempsch5282
    @michaeltempsch5282 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Deep cycle, as well as many starter batteries as trunk mounting is becoming more common, have a small hole for a vent nipple (hole might be plugged with a small plastic plug from factory) that you hook up a thin hose (like for windscreen asher fluid) to. For multiple batteries use T or Y connectors on the hose.
    If the vent is plugged, the caps should be vented, but sealed caps should be available for use when the vent is used, check with the dealer.

  • @jeffreykropp7664
    @jeffreykropp7664 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    After many years with lead-acid deep cycle, I am experimenting with a couple of lithium batteries (360 amp hours) inside my house, charging with exterior solar panels. Expensive, but many advantages, and the price will come down. As you probably know lithium batteries can be routinely discharged to 10-20% without affecting their lifespan. Love your series!

  • @BobboNaught-YT
    @BobboNaught-YT 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video! I totally recommend anyone do this for their LiFePo4 batteries too, in case they fail and their valve vents electrolyte gases - you want that sent outside for fire safety and your health.

  • @garlandstyle5797
    @garlandstyle5797 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Found your channel and subscribed. I want to Boondock more now, but have been thinking about moving my 2 batteries inside, and adding two more to the bank. Way cool. Thanks Slim. :)

  • @chuckj8205
    @chuckj8205 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice professional job. Just not sure though, although vented, I'd want the batteries situated directly underneath my bed.

  • @biljen100
    @biljen100 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks very good, but doesn't the hydrogen gas from the batteries sink, since it is heavier than air? How do you get it up into the pipes?

  • @jayniestanley7118
    @jayniestanley7118 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I agree. Having it outside will save u nothing. I really like ur idea. Good job.

  • @michaeldoherty2289
    @michaeldoherty2289 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Creative use of a filter strap wrench! Looked very familiar to the stuff I've done Slim! Glad to hear you've upgraded to AGM batteries!

  • @Mtncubpa
    @Mtncubpa 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your videos are great. Thank you for bring them to us. All of the videos I have seen are great by you. Thank you

  • @dananelson3534
    @dananelson3534 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good idea, I know a couple who had their batteries freeze. They weren't the same. Appreciate the tip.

  • @Mizpah61
    @Mizpah61 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looks lie a good solution! Thanks for posting, this will help me when I switch the batteries to inside.

  • @costa2984
    @costa2984 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    isn't that where you had the shower?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Shower is rear right, batteries front left.

  • @oldschooldiy3240
    @oldschooldiy3240 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The question I would have concerns the tubing vibrating loose! I know you travel some rough roads and wonder if you check it every stop or not! Let us know in a follow up!

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi oldschooldiy, I put electrical tape on ends so it doesnt come loose. Since the video I replaced one battery with an AGM sealed as well. Thanks!

  • @pagewhite61
    @pagewhite61 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Another clever idea! Thank you.

  • @brucelangseth8566
    @brucelangseth8566 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent video! Thanks!

  • @chiefjoe528
    @chiefjoe528 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Can you do this with a car battery inside a car?

  • @ObamaTaliban
    @ObamaTaliban 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your videos are very informative, thank you very much. Have you thought the draft of air might be pushed back to the battery boxes and into your cabin?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hi Doc, the battery box vent has the rain guard sloped about 30 degrees to the front. Since I always face the trailer into the wind, this pretty well blocks it. Also, in real rough wind there is guaranteed circulation from the gaps where the walls meet the frame. Thanks! SP

  • @dalekundtz4603
    @dalekundtz4603 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good idea. Escaping battery fumes won't damage the aluminum on the trailer body?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      It has not effect on the body. It's only 2 batteries with minimal emissions. Thanks! SP

  • @flhtru1464
    @flhtru1464 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You bet a winner and it looks great.

  • @nowayoutstp4
    @nowayoutstp4 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Would you have to vent the batteries if they were lithium? Seems like that would be an easy choice.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      No. But at the time this video was made lithium was an extremely expensive choice. SP

  • @kimbartick5210
    @kimbartick5210 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    that kind of battery box top has built in vents that face downward,so the battery gases still flow into the interior of the rv,making all that piping worthless.

  • @ken9700
    @ken9700 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    AAAAhhh... the bike rack , better make sure you have enough clearance with your back bumper and turning in reverse .

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Ken, That's what I'm looking into today. Need to decide if I want to move the propane tank to the front, remove the front wheel, or just heighten it. Too many possibilities!

    • @karinhart489
      @karinhart489 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you move the tank up to the space where the battery box was is there room for a storage box? I saw someone put a bike rack connected/ welded to a locking storage box in that space.

  • @rstevewarmorycom
    @rstevewarmorycom 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Actually, the hydrogen comes off the negative plates, and comes out the water filler vents along with oxygen from the positive plates sandwiched between them. I don't know why you routed it from the positives, the plates in the batteries alternate, + and - , 8 or 10 plates in each of the 6 cells, each with vented filler caps, and you don't need to vent AGMs. And the vents in your battery box lids should be left open to route fresh air into the battery boxes or the lighter gases won't rise out your side vent.

  • @harloh9578
    @harloh9578 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Slim...great video.. I was curious if you put the batteries inside on your new travel trailer also?

  • @jwagnermail
    @jwagnermail 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Good idea, but here are some ways to do it differently.
    Use Flexible Liquid Tight Conduit and connectors for the bent parts, getting those two elbows lined up is fussy, flex connections are easy to do one at a time.
    Keep using the straps to secure the battery box covers. Use more than wood screws, bolt the battery boxes down with good size bolts through the floor. If you hit some big bumps you might spill acid, or short circuit on some metal in the trailer.
    I think there might be issues with weight distribution and tracking with both batteries on the same side, but I don't know how well the Aliners do when out of balance.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Hi J, I actually looked into the Flexible Liquid Tight Conduit, but found it not flexible enough for such a small area. The batteries have 4 screws each, and the one has been installed for almost two years there without issues, but more secure is always a good idea. I keep all my heavy tools on the other side so it evens out quite well. Thanks for the tips!

    • @jwagnermail
      @jwagnermail 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I know that it can be hard to do a sharp turn with flex conduit, but if you give it more length it should be doable. The reason I think that would be the way to go is that you can leave the flex connected to the battery box top as you open it to check the battery water level. Sort of like the way you can leave the air intake hose connected to your car's air filter box while you are checking the filter on your car engine.
      But I'm probably over engineering this, it's just an air vent.

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      drilling holes in the bottom of the box is not a good idea.one of the functions of the box is to retain any electrolyte that could spill out.drilling holes negates the integrity.fastening some pad eyes or even screw eyes to the floor and then strapping them down is far stronger and more stable than a couple short screws.

  • @joelopez2012
    @joelopez2012 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm I mssing something? Why not remove batteries in the WInter and store in garage with battery tender?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes you are missing something. I camp all seasons, including winter! SP

  • @boba6776
    @boba6776 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great idea and it looks very professional.

  • @leezahn
    @leezahn 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Are these agm batteries. I am getting conflicting info. I bought ub121000 have 3 in bus no vents but now want to just add batteries boxes and a vent hole to be sure.

  • @biljen100
    @biljen100 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I meant hydrogen sulfide gas from over charging

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's hydrogen, not H2S. Hot (or warm) hydrogen rises. As for overcharging, not likely since it is regulated by a controller. SP

  • @DavidSmith-vo3nd
    @DavidSmith-vo3nd 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you that is a good idea!!

  • @AJDRAGON01
    @AJDRAGON01 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, Wouldn't a setup like that need a fan to draw the gases out, or is a fan not need.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Its for venting only. With a small setup of just two batteries the gases during charging are minimal. SP

  • @webbrowne2291
    @webbrowne2291 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Why not use AGMs and not worry about venting?

  • @dennisclark8766
    @dennisclark8766 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent video. That's how they should all be done. Thanks for teaching us.

  • @HighRoad317
    @HighRoad317 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You always have and complete great projects with excellent engineering.

  • @eliasoeliaso4493
    @eliasoeliaso4493 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    @9:09
    I can think of a reason, and a good one, too : .....more space inside the trailer!
    :P :D ;)

  • @sunpowerlink
    @sunpowerlink 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Use completely sealed AGM gel type battery that do not need vented.

  • @billlifer4788
    @billlifer4788 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I was more interested in the wiring part of the job. Wish it would have been shown

  • @billleland957
    @billleland957 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just curious, do you have a mechanical background? You are very creative. Great solutions.

  • @gregoryg.campbell3874
    @gregoryg.campbell3874 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    nice clean job😀

  • @tmariepi1472
    @tmariepi1472 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very nice job! Fun to watch, also.

  • @kawaikui
    @kawaikui 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent idea for venting. Awesome . . . space for a bike rack! Thanks again, Slim.

  • @markmonke2012
    @markmonke2012 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    turn the boxes 180 won't need so much fab.

  • @rejmonwilson
    @rejmonwilson 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    That’s what I am talking about 👏🏾🙀😎🍻🍺

  • @mikeackerman9451
    @mikeackerman9451 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    What if the wind blows into the vent?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Then it will provide some circulation. The issue is preventing vapor buildup. SP

  • @dtec30
    @dtec30 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    double up on the gas tank and put the bike rack in

  • @anthonyhitchings1051
    @anthonyhitchings1051 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Slim - when driving is your car's electrical system charging (or at least connected to) your Aliner battery?

  • @ManInTheBigHat
    @ManInTheBigHat 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm planning two deep cycle batteries under my seats. I'm also concerned (as some mention below) about weight distribution. I'm hoping to get one battery on each side of the front dinette. I understand adding weight in heavy tools. Kind of a good excuse to add way more tools to the kit.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I removed my water holding tank so I could store my water in jugs. That way I can re-distribute the weight to make up for the batteries. Thanks! SP

  • @JimPopeHiker
    @JimPopeHiker 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    What do you do with positive and negative leads that are still out on the tongue?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They are no longer out there. Moved indoors! SP

    • @JimPopeHiker
      @JimPopeHiker 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SlimPotatohead I still have to figure out how to power trailer Jack now that battery won’t be there 🤔

  • @dougfam4477
    @dougfam4477 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! I have been thinking about doing this to our traditional pop up, but never wanted to invest in new battery boxes with vents. This is a great solution and may give it a shot.

  • @UncleBuckle50
    @UncleBuckle50 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thx Slim. Very creative, as usual.

  • @kimbartick5210
    @kimbartick5210 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    WITH THOSE KIND OF BATTERY BOXES THE SULFURIC ACID STILL EASILY GETS INTO THE RV BECAUSE THE LIDS COME WITH LARGE VENT OPENINGS.

    • @tweetiebird
      @tweetiebird 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not to mention he just created wholes in the floor albeit it is skewed into the floor so hopefully these batteries don't have acid in them seep through the gaps and cause acid damage underneath why outside is safer.

  • @debkainauskas552
    @debkainauskas552 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    What gauge do you use on your propane tank?

  • @danachim5932
    @danachim5932 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    So as a people with limited resources .. we find out that the fight against corosion at the battery is ........ honey and perfect contacts. be sure to smoooth the contacts as much as possible, grease them with honey,

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      that ought to make the bugs and critters happy

  • @fewille
    @fewille 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    With the battery inside, how’s the best way to run your solar panel cable from the roof to the inside?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I put it through the floor. On an A-frame the junction is only about 5' long. SP

  • @KristoferTravelsHomesteading
    @KristoferTravelsHomesteading 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very smart vent.

  • @johnsmith-ey1nr
    @johnsmith-ey1nr 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice but you forgot one thing: Outside air needs to enter the battery boxes from the bottom of the boxes. I don't see where you have provided that feature.

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      who said it needs outside air.its not a fireplace

  • @fattie2550
    @fattie2550 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome Vid. Slim Potato Head.

  • @gregjobe5672
    @gregjobe5672 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    How do you reroute the cables?

  • @iablanet
    @iablanet 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Slim for the info and the links!

  • @DROY2004
    @DROY2004 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great idea Slim, I’ll give you a heads up after the fact; you can do this ventilation another way by mounting a 120mm x12v silent computer fan on the inside of your box ( mounts with 4 screws) cut the appropriate hole (1 1/2”-3”) & cover the outside hole with a screened vent cover sized like your door vent, run it off your battery to an accessible switch outside your battery box. When at a camp spot, (not moving) , switch it on to vent, when traveling , switch it off, the moving air flow will vent it. Shalom!

    • @Artisanwoodworks73
      @Artisanwoodworks73 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I’ve thought about this exact situation. Do you have any pictures or further descriptions?

    • @traviswagner9822
      @traviswagner9822 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes I'd like to see pics too

  • @constancecondit4349
    @constancecondit4349 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think batteries belong outside. It’s not just venting, it’s malfunction and fire. But, nice installation. How airtight are battery boxes? How much weight on side now?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Constance, I think if your battery is well maintained there shouldn't be problems. Most of my research into battery issues were with poorly maintained batteries. Perhaps I could put a link on proper battery maintenance if I find a good source. The boxes are not airtight, nor should they be. Air has to flow in, vapors out. I don't use the water tank so the balance on that side should be fine. Thanks!

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      theres thousands of installations where the batteries are enclosed in RV's

  • @joellopez8662
    @joellopez8662 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Things are so much cheaper when you're handy. I'd of just bought new batteries that dont require venting. lol

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Joel, I'd love to have the good quality AGM batteries, but at $280 each that's way beyond my budget. It only cost me $20 to vent my two cheap Walmart batteries!!!

    • @joellopez8662
      @joellopez8662 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Lol yeah, they're expensive alright. I just meant that, I respect (maybe envy a little) how you're capable of just rigging something inexpensive up and boom, it works.
      Had I tried it, my aliner would have 6 holes in the side, blood smeared all over the piping, a vent that's upside down, and a trash bin full of ruined pvc!
      Cheers, dude.

  • @shawnio
    @shawnio 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    you are like the bob vila of rv's I like the videos, I can never wrap my head around people with one battery, in America they are so dirt cheap you can get a couple more in there. Im going for 4 105 amp hour rv batteries and 400 watts on top, I will stay tuned :)

    • @shawnio
      @shawnio 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      same as you, everstarts 31 group

    • @shawnio
      @shawnio 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      and make sure you bolt those down there, I can see rosco p coltrain chasing you again one day and they go flying lol

  • @tenminutetokyo2643
    @tenminutetokyo2643 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    What line of work are you in?

  • @allen9272
    @allen9272 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Through the years you've made quite a few changes. It would probably be a good idea to take the trailer to a scale and find the weights on each wheel and the tongue. You want to be sure to have at least 10%-15% weight on the tongue.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Allen, good point. I have made a conscious effort to remove weight from the back (bending frame issue) and am adding a bike and rack to the tongue. May have room for a box on the tongue as well now the battery's not there. Thanks!

    • @Regorybles
      @Regorybles 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Did you shift weight around side to side to offset having the heavy batteries on the one side of the trailer?

  • @pilot41186
    @pilot41186 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Came out pretty decent!

  • @tnwilliamson
    @tnwilliamson 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great idea, Slim. I too moved my battery inside my aliner, but I upgraded to an AGM battery that is sealed and needs no venting. One concern I have is that it is on the left side of the trailer and it weighs about 65 lbs. The water tank is also on the left side and it puts more weight on that side without counter balancing weight on the right. Probably no big deal.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Tom, I removed the tank. Now I can add weight wherever I need it. Thanks!

    • @marymichaels5434
      @marymichaels5434 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Jui

  • @michaellowrey8159
    @michaellowrey8159 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Am I missing something - thought that area was the bathroom????

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Michael, the shower is in the rear right corner. The batteries are in the front left. I will include a full 360 perspective on the inside of my trailer soon. Thanks!

  • @aznboycols
    @aznboycols 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Unless I misunderstood you, I would have thought that you'd want the vent pipe to slope down going out to the vent. This would allow for any condensation to flow out of the pipe and not pool towards the capped end.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It is the lighter gases I want to expell, not condensation. I have never had any condensation. Thanks! SP

    • @aznboycols
      @aznboycols 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SlimPotatohead I was thinking more of warm moist outside air condensing, unless the interior is the same temp as the outside. I may be overthinking.

  • @SuperLaplander
    @SuperLaplander 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Slim, good one!

  • @TheBoomBoomRoomStLouis
    @TheBoomBoomRoomStLouis 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fricken genius. I love it

  • @AllenManor
    @AllenManor 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very clever as always but kept wondering if water would get in the louver while driving in the rain? Time will tell!

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Mighty Cass, I plan on 10,000 miles the next few months so that should be a good test. Will sure to update any tweaks.Thanks!

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      like any other vent or louver on an RV?the water wont get in.

  • @centralcoastcamper9631
    @centralcoastcamper9631 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice idea on the battery relocation and venting. My only suggestion (being a 40 year career plumber) would have been to use all pvc water pipe fittings and tee's to simplify the assembly.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely! There are so many ways this can be done, I used what I could find at any hardware store (Lowes in this case). They didn't have short lengths of 1 1/2" PVC which is why I went to ABS. Maybe Home Depot! Thanks

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      or flex pipe

  • @stevenV57
    @stevenV57 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome idea! Great job.

  • @danawright3099
    @danawright3099 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good job Mr. Potatohead.

  • @sjTHEfirst
    @sjTHEfirst 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Now that you have the batteries off the tongue and a little closer to the axle, have you ever considered putting a second propane tank on the tongue?

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Stephen, I'm actually finding ways to use less propane, therefore a second tank would not be any advantage in my situation. Thanks! SP

    • @polarlab113
      @polarlab113 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      with a small rv like that a 20 pound tank will last for two weeks easy.you dont need the extra weight.use that stowage factor for beer lol

  • @happytoo10
    @happytoo10 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for a great fix 👍

  • @DaiLenMatHo
    @DaiLenMatHo 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    thieves love it outside

  • @kurtiswilliams6629
    @kurtiswilliams6629 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great Video for sure, I'm curious how you feel after a couple years disassembling that vent set up in order to water your batteries on a regular basis? That's the only downside I could see from this.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Strange question. Why would I be watering my batteries? SP

    • @kurtiswilliams6629
      @kurtiswilliams6629 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SlimPotatohead the reason you vent lead acid batteries is they produce gas, the water levels go down over time, if you don't water them the lead gets exposed to air and corrodes and kills your battery. That's why the caps on the batteries come off.

    • @SlimPotatohead
      @SlimPotatohead  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sorry Kurtis, I thought you were referring to water coming through the vent from outside. Topping the cell levels, yes. Not too big an issue, as it came apart quite easily. Currently I do not use deep cycle, switched to AGM. No more venting issues. Thanks! SP