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Lead Acid vs Lithium RV Batteries: Complete Upgrade Guide
Solar Batteries Medium 4-8 hours 91 👍

Lead Acid vs Lithium RV Batteries: Complete Upgrade Guide

Pulled into my favorite boondocking spot with batteries that used to last three days, but now these lead acid units are completely dead after just one night! I've been running two 12V lead acid batteries in my travel trailer and I'm SO tired of dealing with their limitations - slow charging, constant maintenance, and they seem to die at the worst possible times.

I found these Dyness 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 lithium batteries and I'm really hoping they might be the solution I've been looking for. But I'm completely lost when it comes to lithium technology. Will my current converter/charger work with lithium batteries, or am I looking at more upgrades? I keep seeing mentions of something called a BMS - what exactly does that do and why is it important?

I just want a system that actually works reliably and charges properly both when plugged into shore power and while driving. Can someone please tell me if making the switch to these Dyness LiFePO4 batteries is worth it, and what I need to know about compatibility with my existing charging system? …more
Atwood 8535-III Furnace Replacement: Best Direct & Alternative Options for RV Heating
Propane Hard 3-4 hours 68 👍

Atwood 8535-III Furnace Replacement: Best Direct & Alternative Options for RV Heating

This 1998 Holiday Rambler's Atwood 8535-III is dying and I can't swing a $300+ service call — any DIY replacement options under $200? It's been repaired multiple times over the years, but now it's getting rusty and parts are nearly impossible to find. I'm worried about safety issues if I keep trying to patch it up.

I really need to replace it with something reliable, but I'm nervous about compatibility issues. Will a newer furnace even fit in the same space? Are there any direct replacement options that won't require major modifications to my RV's heating system?

I'd feel much better having a proper replacement recommendation rather than guessing and potentially creating bigger problems. What are my best options for replacing this old Atwood 8535-III? …more
Robert, RV Mechanic
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