We got the new battery charger controller installed, that was actually pretty easy. Then we looked into where and how to make it so that I could charge all the items I use in the trailer without having to run the genset. Mike found some DC ports and figured out how to install them, where I wanted them. I’m now able to charge everything off the trailer batteries. That new controller was able to bring the batteries back after the charger died during the trials wknd. By the time I was heading home the Genset wasn’t charging the batteries. They depleted enough that the drive home didn’t bring them back to a usable level. Mike suggested to me that I put the new charger on the batteries directly. It worked like a charm, I had them back to a usable level for my overnight in stay in Farmington. Good thing too, it was cold that night, I had to run the heat. I may still have to replace them this summer, but at least I don’t have to do it right now. I’ll get to test the new set up out at the next trials event.
As a Bonus, Mike got me some new LED lights for the back part of the trailer over the couch and dinette. That area of the trailer is really dark and there isn’t any lights or windows there. He installed two strips of LEDs that makes a MASSIVE difference and I don’t have to run the Genset!!!!! While doing this mini project Mike figured out how we would run the wiring for the solar, where the control would go, and how to tap into the existing wiring. We didn’t get the solar part of the upgrades, so the solar panels and controller are waiting for our next trip to Montrose. He says he can do it while we are there, honestly, I’m not convinced that’ll happen. Who’s going to choose work on trailer over doing a dirt ride. If I have to take another trip to SLC to get it done… oh well. I have loads of vacation time to use and I like doing rides up there.
Really, I’m happy I won’t be needing to run that generator as much, it is not very quiet, but it’s not as loud as some of the cheap ones I’ve heard at the track. It will still get a workout when I’m boondocking in some places I’m going for the AC or the microwave. The AC is mostly for Sable when I’m racing and she’s stuck in the trailer alone. I don’t want her to overheat, and it’s nice for when I get back and I’m dying of exhaustion and heat stroke after I complete my laps for the endure races… I can even use/charge my laptop off these ports.
The next things to deal with are greasing wheel bearing and getting the genset serviced. (new air filter, oil change, and fresh gas so it’ll run better)