I did my own Battle Born lithium and solar upgrade on my 2021 Globetrotter 27FBQ. Called Airstream Service and they assisted me on install and sent me schematics for my coach. Had to put a jumper on charger and change Victron dial from position #2 to position #7 on dial. Also installed buss bars to clean up the wiring, everything came out perfect. Took coach to Airstream in Jackson Center for some warranty work and they verified everything was correct and said I did a first rate job on installing. Upgraded all cables to 2/0 and crimped on new ring terminals. Installed Smart Shunt and Bluetooth dongle on solar controller. Saved me thousands of dollars over getting installed at dealer. Got batters directly from Battle Born Black Friday half price in 2023. Got solar panels directly from ZamP Solar Black Friday 70% off. Got mounts and wiring for solar panels from AM Solar. Did everything for under $2K prob closer to $1500 for everything I purchased BB GC2 Heated
I just purchased a 2017 Bambi 16RB and it has two AGM batteries.and is also prewired for solar. I have not actually picked this trailer up yet, but am doing my due diligence so I don't run in to too many surprises. The current owner just replaced both AGM's so they are brand new. I am a first timer and do not yet know how often I may be powered on battery only. Does it make sense to live with the AGM's for the life of them or at least until I decide that I need a little more performance during off grid use? Or do I bite the bullet now and upgrade the system which sounds more involved dthan I had anticipated. Kudos to your team for this video and thanks for any reply. I am also thinking of purchasing a Zamp solar panel (140 watt) to plug into the A-frame as needed as there are no panels on the roof.
Congratulations on your purchase of the 2017 Bambi 16RB - it's a fantastic choice for your adventures! You're doing the right thing by thinking ahead about your power needs. Since the current AGM batteries are brand new, it might be a good idea to start with them and see how they meet your needs. AGM batteries are reliable and should serve you well, especially as you're just beginning to explore your off-grid requirements. As for upgrading the system, it's something you can consider down the line based on your experiences and needs. Adding a Zamp solar panel is a great idea for supplemental power and can be easily integrated with your current setup. However, since you're new to RVing and to ensure you get the best out of your Bambi, I highly recommend speaking with our service expert at 800-265-9019. They can provide detailed insights into the power system of your RV, advise on potential upgrades, and even discuss options for enhancing your off-grid capabilities. Plus, they can share some tips on how to make the most of your RV experience. Kudos to you for doing your homework, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way!
how many batteries would i need for a Mercedes sprinter fitted for a single chair barbershop? A/C unit / tv/ small fan/ small cooler firdge / coffe machine. L.E.D lights . and to charge phone and clippers . I need help
I would recommend contacting the shop that is doing the conversion for you so they can consult with you on the power requirements of each one of the items you wish to use and design a system for you.
Tommy , I have a 2017 Mercedes Airstream Interstate , I live in South Texas , and I am tired of using the Generator to use the back AC, what changes can I do to the Mercedes Interstate to have , 6 Lithium Batteries under the chassis , the correct Inverter , the correct Alternator , what is the correct requirements to charge the batteries of the 30 amp shore connection , I want to change the roof vent for a Dometic RTX 2000 Airconditioning , so I can run it of my lithium batteries , also I would love to have more and new solar panels, and last can you sell me all the parts and coordinate with my Technitian electrician, on the Instalation , so I can Install it in South Texas . The idea is to have a good off the grid system , where I can charge the lithium batteries with the 4 options , Solar , Shore connection , generator and Alternator from the Mercedes Sprinter Van. Also that way I have everything in my RV running off 12 and propane , except the Microwave ( Is there a 12V Microwave ? ) .
Hello Antun Tabet, If you are trying to build this system on your own, we unfortunately cannot provide detailed instructions. But we would be more than happy to give talk over options and give you a formal estimate. Please reach out to service@colonialrv.com and we happy to help you out!
Great video question is it possible for the battle born battery to run the AC unit in an Airstream and if so how many batteries would I need? Thank you
Yes, absolutely, you would need a minimum of 4 100amp hr lithium batteries, a 3000W inverter and a oft start in the air conditioner. Run time would be limited to about 2-4 hrs depending on conditions.
Yes, we sell through our parts and service department Inverter chargers. A 2000W would be recommend for 200 amp hrs of batteries. A 3000W would be good for 400 amp hr batteries.
Hi Tommy, I heard for the 2022 Airstreams with the solar option the components are upgraded to support lithium without requiring a change to the charge controller, converter, wiring, etc. (ex. looks like they already have a Victron MPPT) I just got a 2022 Flying Cloud 27' FB Twin with the solar package, and wanted to know if it's truly a "drop in" situation with 2-100AmpH Battle Born batteries or, as you indicated, components need to be upgraded. I know the inverter is still limited to 1000w. Thank you in advance for your guidance and the great video! Regards.
Bruce, I’m curious if you found anything out about this. My Globetrotter has the Victron MPPT as well. I’d love to know if I need to change out the converter, wiring, charger, etc.
I upgraded to Battle Born 100 amp hrs three years ago. Before that I had two trojan T105's. I dropped them in and didn't change out my inverter or charge controller. The second year I had these I added 210 watts of solar to my existing 90 so now have a total of 300. The Battle Born are awesome. Charge quickly and I have had zero problems with them without having to change anything on my system. (I have a Northern Lite Truck Camper) The good thing about lithium is you don't need vent holes..so I put insulation over the existing ones and this helps keep the batteries warmer in extreme cold temps. I have been in the temps camping where it was in the 20's at night for over a week with no noticeable drop in usage of the batteries. I tell everyone I meet to bite the bullet and upgrade to lithium...I no longer worry about keeping the batteries above 50% or even really checking on them at all. If you are going to get them Call the company and order over the phone. I got an extra 10% off by doing this from their on line web page and it was at least 30% less than amazon or any other site 2nd party selling them.
From a labor perspective - which Airstream is the most economical approach for installation - considering number of batteries/inverters etc.? Min of two 100amh batteries. Thank you
We have seen 800amp hrs and a 3000w inverter installed in a 16X Basecamp. Our service team at service@colonialrv.com can assist you in pricing and scheduling if you wish to have the work done here.
Great video, Battle born is the way to go but when it comes to adding batteries, weight and location is very important. On a trailer you want most of the weight on top of the axel so depending on how many batteries you install will determine location. At 31 lbs each the can add up quickly. I only have a 800 lbs dry capacity. Food for thought
James we always recommend following the manufactures reconditions int their manuals. A shunt is typically installed on the negative lead of your battery bank. All electrical loads should flow through the shunt, so there should be no other components between it and the battery. Sizing Shunts come in different sizes.
Good piece! Question: If I get the upgrade you describe, do you need to do any mods regarding the tow vehicle charger function? Just wondering if the lithiums affect the vehicle alternator and battery in way via the 7-pin connector.
AGM marine style unless you NEVER camp in cold weather. Ask yourself if after viewing this vid are you ready to take on the responsibility and effort to babysit your batteries after the temps fall below 40 degrees. There is a reason why they emphasize the heater requirements.
Pete, great comment...I was thinking the same thing! Colonial Airstream states "just leave my heat switch on 24/7".....ok, so what's the point of a switch? Bottom line IMHO, mount the batteries in an environmentally friendly location is the best bet. The H series seems to be an afterthought to accommodate airstream's mechanical design with respect to batteries.....my 2 cents.
Great job on the video Tommy. Which battery style would work best for a 16ft bambi with an external A-frame mount in Florida (no need for heater), and what batter case? Thx
I had this lithium battery upgrade installed this past March and couldn't be happier with the installation and ease of use. Tommy did a great job on installation and explanation after the installation.