I picked up a battery disconnect from Harbor Freight ($10) about two years ago and have been carrying it around in the camper since then. I finally installed it today.
The early 2000 Coleman Campers have a converter that doesn't stop charging the battery when the battery is fully charged. It will overcharge and burn it out. This disconnect will allow me to keep the camper plugged in without damaging the battery.
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I used a dremel tool to remove the handle on one side of the battery box, then I cut the hole in the side. I bolted with lock washers the disconnect on the box and caulked around the top half. (It goes on white and will dry clear.) I had enough wire to cut the one existing wire and add electrical connections so it runs through the switch.
Here is another option that is very inexpensive.
http://www.harborfreight.com/battery-disconnect-switch-97853.html
I understand the need to keep from overcharging your battery, but I am semi confused... ???..... The reason you did this is because when you are plugged in at a site with electricity the converter charged your battery? I thought that did not charge your battery. Is it just for certain years? I have a 1992 Coleman.
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
If your camper is plugged in at home or at a campsite, the converter is charging your 12V RV battery. Depending on your wiring, it may also be charging while driving down the road.
Coleman upgraded their converters is 2003 (I think?) and the new model would stop charging once the battery was fully charged.
I never knew that. I guess I will stop at Harbor freight and look into putting in one of those switches.....Hopefully I don't carry it around for 2 years before installing it :cowboy:
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
Removing an inline fuse would do the same thing... BUTTTTT I don't have an inline fuse to remove. Also, if you forget, blow or loose the fuse, you are screwed for the trip. Your fuse maybe located inside the battery box and you need to open everything up to disconnect it. It's an easy, cost effective disconnect that you could even send DW or kids to turn.
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