Electrical; Battery Care - Coachmen RV Mirada General Maintenance & Troubleshooting

With the use of more electronic equipment in recreational vehicles, the electrical system has become
increasingly important. The key to consistent performance and minimal trouble is to understand the
functions of the basic components (batteries, generator and shore line cord). Additionally, there is a power
center that includes a converter to provide 120V AC and 12V DC when shore line is plugged in or when
generator is running.

BATTERY CARE

A battery is only a storage container for energy. It cannot manufacture energy, but only releases energy
after it has been charged. Coachmen uses heavy-duty deep cycle batteries. Replacement batteries should be
of the RV/Marine Deep Cycle type. Proper maintenance will provide trouble free operation and help pro-
long the life of the battery.
WARNING: Always disconnect the negative (-) cable prior to working near batteries to reduce risk of arc-
ing and igniting explosive battery gas.
General Maintenance Instructions
✔ If under extensive or continuous use, inspect and maintain battery electrolyte levels weekly by
adding distilled water as needed to reach split-level marker on battery.
✔ Keep battery cable connections clean and tight.
✔ Keep batteries fully charged - specific gravity should read between 1.215 and 1.250.
✔ Be sure vent caps are tight; replace if cracked.
✔ Periodically clean with a diluted solution of baking soda and clean water followed by a clean water flush.
Battery Storage Instructions
✔ During storage it is important to inspect your batteries every two weeks.
✔ Prevent discharge and sulfation by disconnecting battery cables and re-charging every month. Hook
up a battery charger at least once a month to prevent discharge and sulfation.
✔ The procedure for disconnecting battery cables is as follows:
• Disconnect the ground (negative "-") cable first; then
• Disconnect the positive ("+") cable from the battery.
Battery Installation
Refer to the diagrams below for bat-
tery hook-up examples.
✔ For most gas motorhomes,
the dual 12VDC battery
hook-up will apply (Diag. A).
✔ Travel trailers and fifth
wheels may also have this
type of hook-up. Vehicles
with two or more
slide-outs should have 2 bat-
teries.
✔ Cross Country Rear Diesel
motorhomes will usually have
the dual 6VDC battery hook-
up (Diag. B).
✔ Cross Country Elite and
Sportscoach Rear Diesel
motorhomes will typically
have the Quad 6VDC battery
hook-up (Diag. C).
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ELECTRICAL