Pic Request: MCI w/ Batteries in Engine Bay

[GnarlyBus]

I've been using the 8D batteries that came with the bus for starting the bus and (light) house battery use as well using a Vanner Equalizer. It's worked pretty well. We just use them for our 12v system when not plugged in and we don't have an inverter hooked into them unless needed.

I think it's time to upgrade now though. I'm going to use 6v Golf Cart batteries for house batteries and I'm thinking of using 2 or 4 Group 31 batteries for the starting batteries. Now friends, let's not get into a debate about Group 31 vs 8D or even 2 vs 4 batteries as it has been beaten to death over the years and I know because I just read the 30 threads on that subject.

I'd like to see if anyone can upload pictures of starting battery setups in the engine compartment on an MC9 or similar. I've been thinking about moving my starting batteries back there when I do this whole project.

I read somewhere that people can use the AC compressor mount which would be great because mine needs to be removed.

[TomC]

If you're 24 volts and live in cold country, 4 starting batteries are suggested. I have 12v and use 2-31's, but live in Cal. Because my bus is 12v, I have a jumper relay that can attach the starting batteries and 2-8D deep cycle batteries for assistance-and for charging the deep cycle batteries when driving, charging the starting batteries when sitting. Good Luck, TomC

[lvmci]

Hi Gnarly, I took out the AC coils and heater radiator, in the center cubby hole ahead of the front bay and that's where I put two 4Ds for the house batteries and charger, lvmci...

[Geoff]

I've seen several  MCI's with two 12v batteries on the shelf close to the starter.  Either 12v or 24v.  Group 31's.  No air conditioning.

[GnarlyBus]

lvmci, I cleaned that out and it sits empty for now. I think I'm gonna put my house batteries in the compartment behind the front left wheel where the big radiator and blower were. The spot most people put a generator. Easy access.

Geoff, thats what I'm thinking. Just need some pictures! I got the AC Compressor out yesterday!

[PNWorBUST72]

What else would you put in the back bay since its so close to the engine?

Wouldn't the heat get to batteries over time?  A generator?

[GnarlyBus]

Nah the batts should be fine in the engine bay. Well ventilated and much cooler than under a car hood (someone said in one of the many threads I read about this topic).



People do put compressors back in there though. Not a bad idea.

[GnarlyBus]

So empty in here now...

[lvmci]

Gnarly, if you going to put batteries there, you might want to figure out a lock for that door, lvmci...

[PNWorBUST72]

Nah the batts should be fine in the engine bay. Well ventilated and much cooler than under a car hood (someone said in one of the many threads I read about this topic).



People do put compressors back in there though. Not a bad idea.

Air compressors to work on the bus?

[GnarlyBus]

Gnarly, if you going to put batteries there, you might want to figure out a lock for that door, lvmci...

Good point. I fixed the locks on all three engine doors last summer. Next I need to find a way to lock the gas filler door!

[GnarlyBus]

Air compressors to work on the bus?

Yah, probably to be able to air up the bus quietly in an RV park, or maybe search for air leaks. I'm not sure. It would be a good place to put a tankless 24V air compressor.

Found this pic in a thread somewhere searching for any pics of batteries in the engine area. Hopefully whoevers pic this is is cool with me posting again.

[luvrbus]

Eagle has always had batteries in the engine compartment, that is dumb installing batteries 20 or 30 ft from a engine 

[chessie4905]

They probably wanted them by the HVAC blowers and fans, since they draw a tremendous amount of current and more economical to keep all that heavy wiring short, and help balance weight of coach.

[birdarchitect26]

Mine, right behind the fuel tank comp.

J