LifePo4

When you refer to “smart” alternators what exactly are you referring to and how would one know if they have a “smart “ alternator?  Our TV is a 2007 1/2 ton truck so don’t know if they were using what you refer to as smart alternators yet.  If one did not have a smart alternator and is not really concerned with charging from tow vehicle (plenty of solar and battery capacity), could one just replace the La batt with Lifepo as long as the converter and solar charge controllers were compatible?

Thanks Stephen!

One more update: I've been traveling for ten days without access to electrical hookup. I couldn't be happier with my new batter set up. I went with the Renogy 100AH despite the price. 

Originally posted by EchoGale One more update: I've been traveling for ten days without access to electrical hookup. I couldn't be happier with my new batter set up. I went with the Renogy 100AH despite the price.  One at the higher price was fine (I needed batteries so I was going to spend 2-300 anyway so 475 wasn't much more)-- but I was afraid I'd decide to add a second and that would have been too much. As it turns out the new camper's rooftop solar panels easily top off the daily usage (which is only about 15%)--even on this stretch of rainy days we've had on the east coast. I definitely don't need a second battery. Such an upgrade from my old system: 2 golf cart batteries (heavy!) where I was always pulling to boxes apart to chef the charge level and hauling around my heavy portable solar panel to keep them charged up...not to mention maintenance.  It's a sweet setup. Thanks again for the advice while I was figuring it out.  :)

Thanks.  We are picking up our new trailer Thursday and it is compatible with LI batteries, I was just concerned with the battery draining during transit when connected to the 7-pin.  I tested my truck and believe it is not a “smart” alternator but need to confirm with Dodge this week.  I will eventually run a dedicated run with a DC-DC charger but we already had a trip planned before we pulled the trigger on the new trailer and I only have a few evenings to swap the batteries, go through and check/tighten all the plumbing and electrical and pack it for the trip, so not sure I want to ad that to the list before we leave.