I have a problem with recurring battery corrosion in my 2008 Newmar Dutch Star motorhome. I have two 12-volt-DC batteries that start my 425-horsepower diesel engine, and four six-volt-DC house batteries. (Most of the corrosion takes place with the house batteries.) Approximately three years ago, I took apart the shelf in the battery compartment and washed the shelf and compartment with a solution of baking soda and water. Every year thereafter, the batteries have been cleaned and checked, but the problem continues. I am due to go to Cummins for an annual engine/Spartan chassis checkup, and I will ask that the batteries be cleaned again because of more corrosion.
What can I do to correct this ongoing problem? Is there a spray solution I can use? Is there a battery specialist in Billings, Montana (the large town near me), or is Cummins capable of solving this situation?
Barry McGranahan, F436155
Roundup, Montana
That much battery corrosion likely is caused by outgassing of the batteries — vapor escaping from the batteries when they are being charged. Some corrosion can be expected on nonsealed flooded-cell batteries; however, the excessive corrosion may be the result of overcharging or extended charging at an excessive voltage.
The charger should go to float mode after completing the charge cycle and then maintain the batteries at around 13.2 volts. But if charge mode continues at 14-plus volts, much gassing will occur (on nonsealed flooded-cell batteries). Newmar should be able to suggest a reliable service shop in your area.
We need a new battery tray for a 2010 Damon Tuscany 4072 motorhome. The entire tray with rollers is 23 1/8 inches wide and 15 1/2 inches deep. The inside size is 20 7/8 inches wide and 14 5/8 inches deep. We can get by with just the rollers on each side of the tray.
Ed & Diana Evans, F413155
Carmel, Indiana
Lippert Components still produces the Kwikee battery tray, as well as other slideout trays. It appears they also sell just the roller sets without a tray. To be sure, contact Lippert customer service, customerservice@lci1.com; (574) 537-8900. You may have to send them a photo.