I was told that I was welcome to ask stupid questions here, so here I go :-)
I have had my 1991 Winnie Chieftain 34' for nearly 2 weeks now (my first RV).
I assume that the "battery condition" meter inside the coach refers to the condition of the aux batteries. If so, it is showing it to be "low". I went to start the gen today to test is and it barely turns over and wont start.
I read in my limited manual that I can charge the aux batteries by switching the "Battery Mode" switch on the dash to "DUAL" whilst driving.
My question is, how long does it take to charge the aux batteries? How do I tell if the aux batteries are just drained or if they need to be replaced.
Thanks for your time guys. I am taking steps to improve my poor knowledge on motorhomes. I am taking the "RV Orientation" that Camping World offers ($60).
Mark, welcome to the forum and Class A RVing..!!! Your house batteries were indeed dead per your description. The dual switch on your dash will charge your start battery first and then charge your house batteries. When you park, if you leave the switch in the dual position both sets of batteries, your house and your start battery could become depleted. For this reason, you always want to ensure the switch is in the single position when parked. That way your coach always starts... Since it is a new to you coach, I would have all the batteries tested as well as your charging system. PepBoys and most NAPA stores can do this for you. Batteries are cheap insurance and can mean the difference between a good weekend and a great one. Do a Forum search under batteries and you will get way more info than you will ever need...... Again welcome to the forum and continue to ask away.......Dennis
Another thing I do is when I check the level in the batteries, I also check with a hydrometer. This will tell if one cell is lower than the others and the charge at that time. You can get a Hydrometer, Battery Tester, at any autoparts store or wally store. Helps you keep ahead of battery problems. I check my batteries at least every 2 months or before any trip.
Check your batteries often for a few months as some older inverter/chargers would overcharge while plugged in to shore power. Only takes a minute to check the water level. I have had batteries boil dry while plugged in at home in one of my previous 5er,s.
Welcome to the world of camping.
PS, there is no dumb questions when you are trying to learn.
Wizard
32' 2002 Brave, Ford V-10
2006 Explorer 4X4
you didn't say if you were plugged in to shore power. Shore power will charge the house batterys and running the engine will charge the chassis batterys while driving.
1996 Safari Serengity, 3126 Cat,Allison 6 speed, 38' DPNS, 2005 Honda Element,vip tow brake. doran tire sensors, Magellan750Nav,
and 1 good looking wife, and missy and Alex(died 11-03-06) and AJ, born 09-06-06 my carins.
FMCA # F374886
Thanks for the posts. I booked myself (and the MH) into Camping World today for my one-on-one "RV Orientation" class.
I figured 60 bucks is cheap to learn in a practical way how it all works. That way I can also ask specific questions regarding my electrical system and have the batteries checked.
Mind you I am under no illusion that I'll walk away after spending only 60 bucks. Im sure there is plenty they will be able to sell me on.
I will say I was impressed with the service I received at CW yesterday. I went down to have a safety inspection on my propane system. After about an hour or so I was told the job was done. The guy that was working on my MH come over to me and told me the system was perfect. (much to my surprise is thought my 1991 Winnie would need something!). He told me that "often there is something that needs to be replaced, but I cant sell you anything". He then went on to explain all the tests he conducted, most of which flew straight over my head :-)
Their honesty sure gave me a lot of confidence to return.
If the chassis batteries are fully charged and the house batteries fully dead in a motor home.. Takes about five seconds OR LESS to transfer enough power to start the generator.. HOWEVER Do not release the "Dual" switch (OR emergency start, or aux start or whatever they call it) till the generator is fully engaged, (usually 30 to sixty seconds after start)
Nothin adds excitment like something that is none of your business John is Near Kenwood TS-2000 housed in a 2005 Damon Intruder 377
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Since it is a new to you coach, I would have all the batteries tested as well as your charging system. PepBoys and most NAPA stores can do this for you. Batteries are cheap insurance and can mean the difference between a good weekend and a great one. Do a Forum search under batteries and you will get way more info than you will ever need....
.. Again welcome to the forum and continue to ask away.....
& Mary 
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