I need HELP!!!: batteries won't stay charged

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batteries won't stay charged

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Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: I need HELP!!!
Forum Discription: Perplexed/need help with a problem - ask here
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=16190
Printed Date: 18 May 2025 at 9:29pm
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Topic: batteries won't stay charged

Posted By: ronnieb
Subject: batteries won't stay charged
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 10:00am

My batteries won't stay charged after reaching 12 volts with a solar panel nor will they charge after driving. What to do?

Replies:

Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 11:17am

What are you expecting? Batteries do self-discharge, even with no load. So expect to have to charge them at least once a month without a load.

Separate from that, there can be parasitic loads that will discharge a battery much more quickly. In extreme cases, maybe only a day or two.

You need to use a DC-capable ammeter to see what parasitic load you have. The parasitic load on our RP179 is about 1/4 amp, or 250 milliamps.

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bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost

Posted By: ronnieb
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 11:32am

Hi Glue Guy, I do charge the batteries every month, but on this last road trip, the batteries were at 7.6 volts after driving 10 hours..not enough to open the slide. I hade to start my truck to operate it.

Posted By: Tars Tarkas
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 3:32pm

How old is the battery? Are all cells filled with water? Are all connections clean and tight?

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2010 176
FJ Cruiser

Posted By: ronnieb
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 5:36pm

Hey TT, The batteries are maybe 3 or 4 years old, I'm diligent about recharging them every month but on this last road trip I had to add distilled water.Still not able to keep a charge. I think my next move is to remove them and have them tested.Any other thoughts?

Posted By: Tars Tarkas
Date Posted: 18 May 2025 at 7:32pm

It's a bit of effort, but probably worth disconnecting every cable, from the ground on the frame, the batteries, and from the batteries to the converter, wire brush everything, and put it all back together.

Then, if necessary, have the batteries tested.

Could be something else, but that's probably what I'd do.

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2010 176
FJ Cruiser