A122 Battery Box Mod

[daveinpickerington]

I like camping away from shore power and I wanted to be able to do extended camping without worrying about running out of battery power.

I installed a "Truck Toolbox" like I saw on another members trailer. Many thanks to that member for his help in providing details on his install. I am being puposely vague in naming the member, as he did not want "The Weight Police" to take over a thread about the mods.

After the mod I moved all of my heavy items to the rear storage area of my trailer (of which there is a lot). As best I can calculate, I added about 50 - 60 pounds of additional tongue weight when all is said and done.

The mod added no noticable sag to the rear of my Nissan Xterra and in a short test drive, there is no change in towing characteristics.

If I notice any relevent handling changes on a prolonged trip, I will simply add additional weight to the rear storage compartment.

I apologize in advance for the novice video, but I wanted to give a good accounting of what was entailed.

A122 Tongue Box Mod - YouTube

[loganmartin]

That's pretty sweet Dave. I wish I was handy like that. Good job.

LM

[daveinpickerington]

Thanks LM. I am very pleased with the result.

For those who only want to see the finished product, FF to 8:22 of the video.

Dave

[thehamguy1]

Nice job, Dave, both on the installation and the video. I like that you can now lock the batteries inside, which could come in handy if you store the trailer somewhere out of your jurisdiction. The 12V outlet was a good addition too. And as a fellow ham, I like that you dressed the wires neatly.

[daveinpickerington]

Thanks Lee. I am not sure what I am going to do for an antenna mount. I like your idea, but, I cannot bring myself to drill holes in the top.

I will use my Transworld 2010 Traveler for the time being. It's a great antenna, but bulky.

Dave

[Bennington Camper]

I would have some concern about mounting the battery disconnect switch in the same enclosure as the batteries.

Before switching, be sure to allow any accumulated hydrogen gas from any battery charging to dissipate. The DC switch will cause an arc when you operate it.

Remember the Hindenberg...

[daveinpickerington]

Originally Posted by Saratoga Camper

I would have some concern about mounting the battery disconnect switch in the same enclosure as the batteries.

Before switching, be sure to allow any accumulated hydrogen gas from any battery charging to dissipate. The DC switch will cause an arc when you operate it.

Remember the Hindenberg...

You make an excellent point. Because of the large "cube" of the box and the slots at each end, there should not be much accumulation of gas. But, I will make sure to wait a minute or two after opening the box before using the switch.

[CCrane2299]

I wonder if you could use one of those directional vents like a boat uses to vent the engine/fuel compartment.