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Overview We just got done upgrading our 2018 LEII (hull #344) from AGM to Lithium. The death knell had sounded for our original AGM batteries. So, given the cost to replace the AGMs, their weight, and the limited usable capacity inherent in AGMs, we decided to upgrade to lithium. We settled on 2, Epoch 300 Ah LiPO4 batteries with internal heating (a total of 600 Ah). The decision to purchase the Epochs was made easier by a 15% sale so we bit the bullet and purchased the batteries , a new Victron Multiplus 2 3000 VA inverter and charger, and a Victron Orion DC to DC charger which will allow us to charge directly from the tow vehicle. Here are more specific details about each step. We relied to a great extent on our tech. Victron Orion DC to DC charging We mounted the 50 amp Victron Orion under the aft seat in the dinette. The Orion was set to draw 30 amps from the alternator on the 2020 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel tow vehicle. The alternator puts out about 220 amps so we are confident this is well within safe operating parameters with all existing loads. We used 4 awg coupled to a marine connector from the TV to the trailer which looks to be quite robust. Of course, we disconnected the power from the 7-pin connector. Victron Multiplus 2, 3000 VA inverter and charger We mounted the inverter vertically under the streetside bunk. We also added a dc fan onto the bulkhead between the bunk and the basement to address heat issues and set it to operate above 40C. The inverter has a main disconnect as well as an inline breaker as per code. System Monitoring A Victron Multicontrol replaced the Progressive Technologies inverter switch from the OEM install and was installed in the same location. This is our primary control panel which provides operational status of the system, and allows us to control the input current. Specific battery State of Charge and other more granular data are available in the Victron shunt app, the Epoch app, and the Victron Multiplus app (as well as the original Xantrex Solar Controller which we did not change). Performance of the system We tested the system today by running our OEM Dometic Penguin A/C off the battery bank. We set the thermostat to 75 F. After 5 hours, we were at 55% SOC. Full disclosure, we only finished the install today and the tests were conducted in our winter conditions here in the Keys at 78 F ambient. The trailer did get warm during the day, but I do think we are likely to get 5 hours or so of A/C in the hotter summer months. Maybe even more. We haven't tested the DC to DC other than at idle. As mentioned, we set the charger to 30 amps so we are likely to get a full charge after a full day driving but that is just an estimate. We have enough leeway to turn up the output from the alternator if needed. Special KUDOS A great deal of thanks goes to our tech who helped install all this - Anthony from Outboard Rigging here in Marathon is the Man! Pictures of the install follows:

There are a number of factors that determine state of charge, life of an AGM battery(s), charging an AGM battery(s), etc.. HERE is a discussion of these factors. In any case it appears that you have seriously discharged your battery(s) multiple times to levels that are very low - well beyond 50% of capacity. Hopefully you will be able to bring them back to life but it appears to me that you will be very lucky to do that. In addition to investigating your batteries, I would also make sure that your charger is operating properly to include being set at the proper charge rates. Good luck! Bill

To remove our graphics I used a heat gun set on low while working the vinyl off slowly with a plastic razor blade. Not moving too fast was critical since whenever I tried moving a little faster the vinyl would end up ripping and coming off in small pieces which slowed the whole process down. Cleanup of the remaining residue was done with Goo Gone.

When I removed the OTT front decal, I only used a plastic razor blade and a hair dryer, which is less hot than a heat gun. I agree with Patriot that a warm sunny day makes the removal easier. Make sure you get all the glue off after removal of the old decal and prior to installing the new decal. The plastic razor blade also work good to remove the glue.

To avoid getting Goo Gone or any other cleaning solvent on the hull area around where you are working . You might consider using blue painters tape and some plastic to mask off the area under the decal you are working on ! Keeping any drips, runs, splashes directed away from the hull keep that stuff off of your hull where it is not needed ! Please let us know the results of the removal !

Gary, I would suggest you try using a heat gun on low or hair dryer first. If that does not work try using Goo Gone decal remover or WD40 and a plastic razor blade, very carefully scrape away decal. A few years ago, I had to remove and replace a small graphic on our “grocery getter” older pick up truck. It was a tedious job to say the least, but the Goo Gone really did a great job of getting the residual glue off the painted surface and did not harm the clear coat. WD40 also works well with decal and adhesive removal also. Suggest then you throughly clean the area with warm soapy water, rinse, dry, wax and add ceramic coat to the area after adding your new graphics. I do know from experience warm sunny days are your friend when removing decals and adhesives. There maybe be other suggestions, but this method has worked well for me. There is also a decal remover wheel that you can buy and use with a hand drill. I have never used this method and not sure how it would work on gelcoat. It appears to have strong reviews. Drill decal remover wheel - https://www.amazon.com/Remover-Removes-Pinstripes-Graphics-Adhesive/dp/B0B42DWGJM/ref=asc Plastic razor blades- https://www.amazon.com/FOSHIO-Scrapers-Contoured-Refillable-Application/dp/B076BBW1WM/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?

It does from me too. 😊 🇺🇸

Thank you Steve, for your usual experienced sound advice! I filled our tanks today to get ready for travel. It took me forever to find the numbers since there are nothing but numeric codes all over the top handle of these tanks. Our two 30# tanks both have June 2018 dates. Wow, gotta love it! 🤣 We have 3 years and 5 months left on these tanks. I imagine the original owner received 20# tanks upon purchase and after two years realized two 20s were not enough. Our tanks have a Flame King label. Not sure if this is the brand OTT installed at the time. Love that I have over 3 years for this cost, and again thank you. 😂

We still have a bit of work to do to get out later today. We'll make a boondock near Wickenburg tonight and arrive at the Q on Sunday. @ScubaRx I'll call you tomorrow. @rich.dev I just tried to send you a PM and the system stated you "cannot receive messages." Who knows why this forum does that. It's happened to me before and likely has nothing to do with you. Could you please send me a PM so I can reply with my contact info. I certainly want to meet you too and would like to stop by your camp one day next week.

Discharge down to 10 volts on a 12V AGM battery (it appears your two 6v batteries are wired in series, making the two of them operate as one 12V battery) is well below 50% of capacity, which is not good. A lead/acid battery (like an AGM), even a "deep cycle" one, should not be discharged below about 50% of capacity. Said another way, a fully charged 400Ah AGM battery only gives you about 200 Ah of usable power before it begins to sustain damage. The usual charge range for a 12V AGM battery is a high of about 13V when full charged down to a low of about 11V when fully discharged. As Topgun2 has advised, the fact that your batteries read only 10V when fully discharged and 12V (each one at 6V) when fully charged suggests they have been damaged by discharge too deeply, too many times. Also, I suspect your AGM battery system was not designed to operate 120V appliances through the inverter for hours at a time. If you want to be able to run 120V appliances (like the TV) off the inverter for hours at a time without shore power or a generator, you need a very high Ah lithium battery bank. Lithium batteries provide much more usable capacity per Ah than do AGMs. And, you may also need a more powerful inverter. The conversion from AGM to lithium is neither cheap nor easy, but many on this forum have done it. Below is one starting point for that journey.

Never discharge below 50%. 12.3 is a safe bottom number. It only takes one time to go below 50% to damage AGM batteries. They aren't forgiving. It doesn't mean they are toast. Fully charged then, remove them from the trailer and take them to a place that can conduct a load test. You have a lot of things going, fridge, furnace, inverter, television, and additional draws not mentioned. It doesn't take much for the deep dive.

As others stated, slowly, hair dryer, and plastic razor blades. I have no experience with using Goo Gone in the process.

I know I’m a little late to this party, but this search format always works for me. Just change the verbiage between the 'single quotes'. site:olivertraveltrailers.com 'oliver owners rally' Mossey

Awesome Advise👍

Joe & Janet - A few more quick thoughts since you are "first timers" - 1 - bring a camera. You will not remember all of the things you see. A picture will help several months down the road to jog your memory of that mod you thought was interesting. 2 - bring a notebook for many of the same reasons you bring a camera. 3 - bring good walking shoes. I think that you will find that one of the better benefits of attending the Rally is meeting and talking to other owners. This is best done by simply grabbing that camera and notebook and going for a walk. 4 - bring a bike. For many of the same reasons as #3 above. Also, depending on where you are camped, a bike can make quick work of getting down to the vendor area, the Beach Pavilion, camp store/check-in or simply to another campsite. A bike certainly isn't necessary but it can save some walking/driving. Unless you are an exceptional biker - don't even think about biking up to the Lodge for presentations and seminars. The hill is fairly steep. 5 - be mindful of wildlife. Early in the morning and at dusk the deer really do come out and they are not afraid of humans and vehicles. Also, particularly if you are camped up near the road note that there have been reports of snakes seeking the warmth of the asphalt. I've never noticed a poisonous snake but a bite is a bite - just keep an eye out if you tend to walk around after sunset. There really aren't many but --- 6 - be sure to save some time to relax. Usually I get back home from the Rally really tired. The State Park is really pretty - be sure to schedule watching the sunset from up at the Lodge deck or from down by the water. If you see a group around a campfire or even someone simply relaxing outside their Ollie, grab a chair and ask to join them. 7 - never leave your Ollie with the awning deployed. A few years ago a sudden storm came up and at least four Ollies had the awning destroyed. Even last year a sudden storm nearly claimed an awning or two. 8 - with reference to #3 above - Do not be afraid to approach people or simply knock on a door. Most of us love to talk about these trailers and are more than happy to show you what we mods have done. 9 - if you have (business) cards bring them. This will save you a bunch of time giving out this information if you chose to do so. 10 - don't worry about what to bring. We are all camping! Attire for the opening meeting will range from shorts and t-shirts to business slacks and collared shirt. Most will have nice jeans and a golf type polo or shirt. Always bring a sweater or light jacket when going up to the Lodge - there ae times when the air conditioning can be a bit cool. In this same vein a hat and sun glasses are always a good idea when going down near the lake. For supplies - there are a couple of grocery stores in Guntersville to include a nice Publix. There are also hardware stores and the like. There are a number of nice casual restaurants in town too. 11 - finally, as with virtually all things, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations, to borrow just about anything, advice on how to fix just about all things related to your Oliver, etc.. There will be plenty of owners in attendance that will be more than willing to help with just about anything you might need. Bill

Mostly this depends on where and/or how you like to camp. Due to a storm several years ago, the sites closer to the water tend to not be as shady as those further away from the water. Also, the "vendor" area, the "beach pavilion" (where in year's past a number of presentations have been made/held) and dog park are located closer to the end of the campground where the camp office/store is located. Many of the sites that one might consider "better" have already been reserved. However, as a general comment - most of the sites are decent and it is generally a very good campground. If you have specific needs be sure to mention that to the park personnel when you make your reservation. Bill p.s. there are a number of YouTube videos that show both the park and the campground like THIS and THIS and THIS. Also, see THIS video by one of our own members/owners which was filmed at last year's Rally.

Nice, anybody out there with a Seabiscuit Oliver rear basket? I’m in the market for one and need some measurements. I’m at La Posa South and can swing by.

Thanks, Yes, I will be at the Guntersville Rally in April-May.

I always wash/wax my vehicles and also my trailer. Then, I GOT OLD. Since hitting the 70’s my stamina isn’t what it used to be. I can still wash/wax my trailer, but what the CGI team did is a different level. 4 guys, multiple buffers, scaffolding, ladders, thorough wash, buff and then buff some more, ceramic coat, buff, ceramic coat again, buff, measure shine with some kind of shine measuring thing. It would have taken me a week to do that, then two weeks to recover! Mike

I have always been self sufficient. Ever since I was a young man, a kid even, I would refuse to pay anyone for something I could do myself. The first job I ever tackled on my own was fixing the crank on my bicycle. I was 12. From that point on, the toys got bigger and the repairs did as well. Instead of hiring someone, I bought tools and learned how to do it. That progressed to the point that I now have a shop, $20k (probably more) worth of tools and have enough trade knowledge in my head that I can do just about anything. Is it worth it? To me it is. I have literally built houses, cabinets, plumbing, electrical work, I have rebuilt a few engines that actually worked afterwards and I have never paid anyone a penny for it. On top of that, it has built wealth for me. I will die with more money left in the bank than I can spend unless the country falls apart and the dollar tanks. But even then, I will have the knowledge and the tools to keep going. Do it all again. Until I get old and spend $3000 to get my Oliver detailed. :)

I feel the pinch too. Everything has gone up except my pay and I am still paying for two houses waiting for the bigger one to sell. Hopefully, the economy will get better after the election.

Went down to the Wind River Range in Wyoming the 3rd week of July and just now finishing up with photos from the trip. We camped one night the Grand Canyon of the Snake River which by the way is a drop dead gorgeous canyon with some nice USFS campgrounds although close to the road. From there we headed down to the Green River Lakes area in the northern part of the Winds. Had crystal clear blue skies and no fire smoke until the last day. Great hikes beautiful country just an awesome trip. For anyone inclined to take this on be forewarned there is 20 or so miles of very rough gravel road to get back in there, no cell service for at least an hours drive out. Figure about 15-20 mph going in with a few patches of smoother gravel for a few but not many miles. To provide an idea of how rough the road is, we shook 3 of the window frame shades of their mounts, the solar controller in the basement became dislodged from its installment screws, one of the cables for the pins that latch the rear bumper broke loose. Anything not tied down was strewn all over the camper. I'm probably forgetting a few things. Trudi and I had briefly visited this place some 40 years ago and its been on my bucket list ever since. Highly recommended, I would go back in a heartbeat. Regarding true boon docking there are many places along the Green River to accommodate and initially this was our plan until talking with another family who tried it for one night but the bugs and ants were so bad they couldn't even get out of their camper, a Lance in this case. With those words of encouragement we opted for the USFS campground @$6 per night for the geezer crowd. By any measure the vast majority of campers here are tent campers, and the new rage of clamshell tents that carry on top of trucks, suvs and fold out into a top mounted tent. There are two loops here, one small higher the other a bit large and closer to Green River Lake. No reservations, its far too remote and in fact never saw a ranger and there was no camp host at all for the entire week. No problem at all getting a good site and most people only stay one or two nights. BTW the lake and campground itself are approximately 8,000 feet elevation give or take a few. Posting a few quick and dirty iPhone photos below. Green River camp above. Most of the sites here are very large probably between 1/4 or perhaps 1/2 an acre on average. Campsite at the Grand Canyon of the Snake River. Green River Lake sunrise with Sqaure Top Mountain. Preferred a b&w for this one. Beach at the far end of Green River Lake, about a 2-3 mile hike one way, we did the complete loop around with a few other excursions for a total of about 8-9 miles View from the west shore of the lake returning from hike up Clear Creek Canyon Clear Creek approximately half way to the end of the canyon where a natural bridge crosses the creek. Another view of Square Top on the route out from Clear Creek. I was nursing a plantar fasciitis one one foot this day so the almost 12 mile hike just about did me in. We had a few outrageous sunsets accompanied by a rising near full moon. Thanks for looking.

Another good looking Lone Star.... must be a Texas thing!