Are coach batteries needed to start the generator?

[DMezzoprete]

Hi all, just had my new 3170ds winterized and put into storage for the winter. Both of the coach batteries were taken out and put on trickle chargers. Everyone once and a while I like to start the coach and run the engine for about 10-20 min to keep everything running smoothly. I was also told to run the generator, however I couldn't get it started because I assume the generator uses the coach batteries to start. Is there any other way to manually start the generator? It's an Onan.

Thanks!

[bclemens]

Using the emergency start switch it may let you start it off the chassis battery. I'm just not sure how that is connected to the house batteries so not sure what connection could have been removed. But worth a shot.

[wesslvm]

Make sure your coach battery connection cables are insulated first, could cause system short to ground while chassis motor alternator is attempting to power coach.


2014 Sunseeker 3050S

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[RamblerGuy]

Adding to wesslvm's post, you can get a short if the coach batteries are out and the positive cable is loose even if you don't use the emergency start switch. The Battery Control Center will connect the chassis alternator to the coach 12 volt system when the engine is running. You need to insulate the coach battery positive cable before you start the engine.

[ATVer]

Originally Posted by DMezzoprete

Hi all, just had my new 3170ds winterized and put into storage for the winter. Both of the coach batteries were taken out and put on trickle chargers. Everyone once and a while I like to start the coach and run the engine for about 10-20 min to keep everything running smoothly. I was also told to run the generator, however I couldn't get it started because I assume the generator uses the coach batteries to start. Is there any other way to manually start the generator? It's an Onan.

Thanks!

You should also put a battery maintainer on the chassis battery. If you are relying on the periodic running of the engine to take care of the chassis battery why not just leave the coach batteries installed as the engine alternator runs will top off the coach batteries as well. Actually I think it's more important to keep the chassis battery on a maintainer since it is not a deep cycle battery that can better handle long periods of non-use.
I keep all batteries installed with a maintainer on each.

[rlocicero]

Good advice. Battery conditioner/ maintainer is much better than a constant power trickle charger.

[DMezzoprete]

Thanks everyone for your input, these are good suggestions to keep in mind!