Using Auto Generator Start While Storing an Itasca Meridian 42E

[Owen Bridgeman]

I store my Itasca Meridian 42E where there is no shore power. I see that here is an auto start function for the generator to help keep the coach batteries charged. It seems like a silly question but does that mean I need to leave the coach batteries on?

 

[Eagle5]

Yes; the coach batteries must be switched on for the Generator Auto-start to function.

 

[creativepart]

But you’d never want to use auto gen start for Storage. That’s a recipe for disaster. AGS is for use when you are using the RV not storing the RV.

 

[be happy]

Was going to look at the owners manual for information but you did not give the year of your Meridian. Maybe this link will help

Operator Manuals | Winnebago Owner Manuals

Find and view the operator manual here by searching for your specific year and model from our list.

www.winnebago.com

But as was said the auto start is for when you are plugged in to shore power and the power goes off the generator will come on.

 

[Morich]

Point to keep in mind is often missed!
When you turn the battery disconnect switch to off, it does just that! The batteries are disconnected, both from most but not ALL drains but also from charging done by the converter. Safety items are left conected and WILL run the batteries down if given time!
Basic idea is that if you want to store the RV, you will have to arrange some form of charging other than plugging the RV in.
Catch 22?
If you leave the RV plugged in and disconnect on, it is often true that the coach batteries will stay charged but it wll also use more power if you leave all the breakers on and as a second thing to consdier, check if the chassis battery gets charged as most will not if added provisions have not been made.
If you want the chassis AND the coach to charge, you have to verify there is some method to keep them connected. This can be a simple strap between positives of each group but most RV do not come with anything to keep them connected while stored.

A limited number of RV have a small gizmo to do the jop but those are rare and that company has folded. The new replacement item is twice as high and not much more inside. Just market conditions that drive the price for a very simple item.

 

[jimgossett2]

My advice is to remove the battery and take it home. You can charge there as necessary so it is ready to go in the spring. That is a good time to check the water level too.

 

[Horse54]

You probably have at least a total of 6 batteries which is a real hassle to take out to bring home. You should be starting and preferably driving the rig each month for at least 30 minutes. And, running the generator with a full load for 30 minutes. This keep all the fluids in good shape and all the parts lubed as they should. If you will do this at least once a month, you may find your batteries will be fine.

 

[Jaycapsfan]

If you have the Firefly screen that controls the AGS it will disable the AGS after 9 days. See picture. This is the message after 5 days.

 

[Bobn1957]

Point to keep in mind is often missed!
When you turn the battery disconnect switch to off, it does just that! The batteries are disconnected, both from most but not ALL drains but also from charging done by the converter. Safety items are left conected and WILL run the batteries down if given time!
Basic idea is that if you want to store the RV, you will have to arrange some form of charging other than plugging the RV in.
Catch 22?
If you leave the RV plugged in and disconnect on, it is often true that the coach batteries will stay charged but it wll also use more power if you leave all the breakers on and as a second thing to consdier, check if the chassis battery gets charged as most will not if added provisions have not been made.
If you want the chassis AND the coach to charge, you have to verify there is some method to keep them connected. This can be a simple strap between positives of each group but most RV do not come with anything to keep them connected while stored.

A limited number of RV have a small gizmo to do the jop but those are rare and that company has folded. The new replacement item is twice as high and not much more inside. Just market conditions that drive the price for a very simple item.

I just got a device called a voltage-sensing relay that charges the chassis battery whenever the coach batteries are 0.4 volts higher! A reasonably inexpensive device that was relatively easy to install in the battery compartment.

 

[Bobn1957]

I store my Itasca Meridian 42E where there is no shore power. I see that here is an auto start function for the generator to help keep the coach batteries charged. It seems like a silly question but does that mean I need to leave the coach batteries on?

Set up some solar panels, I'm assuming the rig is parked in a safe place, or if you don't get much snow, install them on the roof, leave everything connected with a jumper or voltage-sensing relay. Remember to turn non-essential loads off.