Good Layout for 6 volt batteries?

[C-Cat]

I think I came up with a cool solution to my space and possible expansion plans... is this elegant or did I plan wrong? I think I would be able to easily add 2 more batteries this way (one on the left side and one on the right, again parallel wired with the others...

 

[C-Cat]

And I think I now found a flaw in my design... too many amps adding up? Maybe it's better to do pairs of 6 volt in series and then combine them parallel... not as easy to layout, but less amps in the wires...

Back to the drawing board...

 

[C-Cat]

Maybe more like this!?:

 

[Weight]

Here is a link about connecting batteries and the problems with balance. It doesn't cover six volt, but the information will help you. http://www.smartgauge.co.uk/batt_con.html

 

[highdesertranger]

you can't(well shouldn't) mix batteries of different types, sizes, and AGES. so do what you want one time. do not add more batteries later.

both those wire diagrams are wrong. I will see if I can find the correct schematic I have it somewhere. highdesertranger

 

[highdesertranger]

here's one I had to dig for it.  notice the positive and negative are pulled from the opposite ends of the string.


highdesertranger

 

[C-Cat]

Thanks highdesertstranger,

That's the winning design!

About the possible expansion: I didn't plan to add "different" batteries "much later", but only possibly 2 more of the same after the first couple days of usage if I'd realize that it's not enough. I think I got plenty juice already, though.

-Chris

 

[Almost There]

You also want to have air space between each of the batteries for temperature control.

My Trojan T105REs are spaced with 1x2 turned on the 1" side so they've got 3/4" between each battery. I mention this now because you'll need to have the spacing in when you measure for the wires to connect the batteries.

 

[highdesertranger]

good point Almost There. highdesertranger

 

[C-Cat]

Never showed you guys the final setup... it's pretty much exactly highdesertstranger's drawing... everything worked out fine, did all the wiring and connections myself (except the 120 volt part... I had an RV electrician splice it into the existing RV system) after watching many Youtube videos and remembering how a friend set up the solar on our last coach. Thanks again for helping!

 

[Wabbit]

...You also want to have air space between each of the batteries for temperature control...

Thanks! Have never read this before, but it makes complete sense! Will make sure to a spacer to mine today.