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Replacing Coach Batteries with GEL
I have a 2000 Minnie (WF322E) with ~75k miles. I just replaced my coach batteries (again), this time with a single 8D 225Ah GEL battery by Crown. (I have a 2nd battery of the same that I may add in, should I need it.) While these are not new batteries, they are in excellent health and hold a good charge.
I have not been able to obtain much info on the converter/charger specs, but it would appear that the charging output to the bank is a bit high for GEL batteries. The quoted figures change from one reference to another, but the general consensus for peak charging voltage is 13.8-14.2 volts (for a 12V GEL battery), which is lower than a wet or AGM type battery needs for a full charge. The current charge rate seems to be at least 14.4 volts, which will eventually destroy them. Also, I would assume that the charger goes into an "equalization phase", which is also a no-no for GELs.
On my Minnie, the Converter shares a breaker with the Refrigerator. For now (just to be safe), I'm turning off that breaker once the battery has a good charge. Since the breaker is shared with the refrigerator, that also switches the fridge over to propane. (Not a big deal, but not "ideal" either.)
Is there a setting on the converter/charger that handles GEL batteries? And, if so, where the heck is is located?
I appreciate any help you can provide.
Jack
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