rideadeuce
-
Posts
152 -
Joined
-
Last visited
-
Days Won
10
Posts posted by rideadeuce
-
-
Coming back from a beautiful trip to West Key, FL. pulled into camp outside of Tampa and found this...
Hopefully we can limp into town and get it replaced with a 2-5/16 in coupler rated for 12,500lbs. Saw a members post a while back and almost upgraded then but decided to wait. Luckily, the family is okay. Best to everyone, safe travels. Mike
-
4
-
12
-
-
We have a Cradlepoint and their omnidirectional roof top antenna that was installed by the service department since 2018. Love the wifi and reception in and out of the Ollie but have to agree with Snowball not sure I would recommend at this point. It has been a pain at times not having the subscription nor computer savvy to fix simple issues easily. One good thing, there are finally some decently priced unlimited data plans from the big 3 which makes a cellular modem more useful. We recently got a 100GB un-throttled data plan through ATT for $55/month prepaid. A lot of times cellular companies do not want to give you unlimited or fast data for hotspot usage without charging an arm and a leg. It has been the real issue for me trying to save money and switching plans only to find out the data didn't work as advertised. I do feel like their should be a simpler option that would work just fine like some of the mobile hotspots, satellite, etc. but saying that there are some very cool features like better reception than from a cell phone due to better technology combined with stronger antenna, better GPS signal, Wifi outside of the camper ( good for when in TV), can have 2 SIMs installed for switching between services, nice being able to keep Ollie connected to the internet and for wifi connected devices like alarms, cameras, door bells, temp sensors (main cab and fridge), Victron energy, etc.
-
2
-
-
I have been there a couple of times in a lifted Jeep but never stayed at the campground. The area is very interesting. Lots of 14ers. I think it would be a fabulous place to go with the Oliver but like someone mentioned it really matters more what you are driving for a pull vehicle. The Falls are cool to see plus the dunes and if you have time the Huerfano valley is amazing (you can take a shortcut and go through Medano pass if you have a 4x4 straight from the dunes) to gain a beautiful view of the North side of Blanca and Ellingwood if you are into hiking/trekking. The Valley and lots of roads in that area would not be for the Ollie but you could definitely go and have a blast sticking to the main roads.
Entrance to the Falls
-
5
-
-
I would settle for a steel one! ;). Thanks to this forum I now have a 1UP (which is awesome) bike rack and would love to have a solution like this vs. the factory design to carry our bikes. Can we get a vote on who would order one and if enough people pledged might it be possible to get some made? I would be in for sure!
-
3
-
-
Finally! Going down to the service center in a couple weeks hope to maybe take a peek.
-
1
-
-
Any pics of the black installed?
-
Any chance of getting this made in the aluminum and selling it on this forum for self-install?
-
I use the Yeti 1400 to power my ARB fridge in my truck to supplement cold food storage and I usually keep it charged while driving with the TV alternator or I use portable solar panels to charge it while camped. The only time I need a propane generator for is to run the air conditioner... which is the only thing the Yeti 1400 or 3000 can't do I believe. So unless you install a larger inverter and bigger battery bank the propane gen is still needed for my use. I live in TN and AC is a must 24/7/365. I love the Yeti and Goal Zero products in general but they have very specific uses at home and on the road, although it could always be used for backup to run everything else. And for $3000 you could be well on your way to upgrading to a LFP battery bank. SO many options! I am sure you will get more feedback from the site, which is what makes this site so helpful.
-
Oliver connected it directly to the batteries during the build.
-
1
-
-
@Mossemi, I like the Zamp SAE port just fine. The only drawback is they reverse the polarity so that it is opposite than the rest of the industry. So you have to buy a reverse polarity adapter (cheap on Amazon) or reverse the wiring on the MC4 to SAE connection on the Renogy. But then you can’t use the renogy panel to charge anything else like a solar generator without again using polarity reversal adapter. Hope that makes sense... because it does get confusing in actual use.
-
Got these because it was so simple to install with no moving parts, air lines, etc. Before we left on our trip to MI, I had her loaded down more than usual and noticed a couple of inches of drop that didn't make much difference in towing but thought I would try to correct it when I got back home. Literally a 20 min install. I will update with a pic of TV when hitched to Ollie and update how the ride was was while pulling.
Before:
-
1
-
-
Now that is what I wanted to see, nice job! Thanks for posting. One question, did you do away completely with the Progressive Industries EMS or did you have that in the beginning? Or how about their combiner box for the front (gen) and rear shore power. That is what takes up most of the space forward of the battery box in mine.
Your setup looks awesome. Pondering bringing down the charger controller now. Would like to make some kind of shelf (super strut or plywood) to be able to mount the MP horizontally above the pipes or hang like the Xantrex with some extra support. To incorporate your idea of bringing the batteries inside and put on the same shelf build, would but so cool. Converting the slide out battery tray for tools/storage would be great. This setup would allow you to keep the forward storage area next to BR. Not sure about how to do the shelf properly yet, but getting closer. May just do it like yours. I have some time to think/plan since the battery decision is still up in the air. Thanks a bunch for posting pics and detailed explanation. SO much fun. Multiplus will be on order soon!
-
Yes, from my limited experience with VHB tape, yes, as long as you prep both mating surfaces with alcohol. But why not replace the screw in addition, since the hole is already there.
-
1
-
-
@Overland, true! But I am sure they are well made and would be a lovely addition to an already pure Victron system. The Lifeblue 200ah x2 still seem great (simplicity of drop-in, built-in bluetooth, free app that is very informative, size/wt, same cost as BB with easier install, has its own heater for cold protection) If you want 6-8hrs per day of AC, is it possible with less then 600Ah? Just asking, what your real world experience has been with 400Ah with impressive solar array.
P.S. I really would like to see some pics of others installs. Just curious to see how others did their placement, wiring, switches, etc. You mentioned a thread that you had, where is that?
-
I stand corrected on the fitment... which is really cool! But, wow, $66o0 for batteries... that's a difficult pill to swallow. As for complexity, it is a bit more than just adding $130 BMS from what I understand. In addition, adding anything for me as a DYI is always something to consider because of not only cost, but space, know how, etc. But please update post if you end up installing the Victron's because I would love to see it and possibly install them if the install is not that much more involved. It would be really nice to have a complete Victron system. Thanks for the post.
-
Just went to the website. Wow. The dimensions listed are 9x12x6 so looks like 2 would fit. No BMS built in. Still, very attractive.
-
The new one will not fit. I believe, not easily anyway. Not sure about needing more than 400aH. Also, albeit, I love Victron but their batteries require a much more complicated install. If your are a DYI, the batteries that fit the tray and that have a nice BMS built-in like the BB or Lifeblue LFP will be much easier to install.
Just realized @whatda, that you were looking at EU specs. Nothing available in this market works easily for 400aH except for a couple of brands or you do something custom as you have already stated. I am leaning towards (2) 200 ah Lifeblue’s. Built-in BMS with Bluetooth and free app that is really good.
-
2 of these would fit in the tray with room to spare:
https://www.lifebluebattery.com/rv-boat-lithium-ion-batteries/200ah-lithium-battery.html
For a little more, same thing but smaller with built in heater for cold protection:
Handy comparison chart:
-
What about replacing Xantrex inverter with a Victron Phoenix 12/3000 inverter (same as in Multiplus) but without the charger. Then replace the charger part ($180) of the Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini for Lithium specific batteries. So when you are plugged into to gen/shore power not that much as far as AC data via panel but easier install with all the benefits on the DC side. Thoughts? Or just do the Multiplus and essentially bypass the PD charger.
-
@Overland, That would be cool to see! Thanks
-
Yes, that’s part of the magic of a complete Victron system. All the components talk to each other.
-
Very interesting, thanks for Pics!
-
@Overland, thanks for the comments. I thought seriously about replacing the controller up top with a Blue Seas HD ON/Off switch and placing the new smart solar controller down below-plenty of room. Still might do it (the reason I used a wood board for install -easy to change setup- no holes in pantry wall) party because of reasons you listed.
I am happy with the install though because due to the double hull (air insulation) and the nice R16 insulation throughout, the cubby does not get hot per se, although their is not much ventilation( but neither is there below)
Also, running a cat-5 cable proved to be difficult the first time - didn’t want to do it again until I had to for the Multiplus. Speaking of the Multiplus, this is where I am still thinking - where to place it? Pics/comments on that? As far as the shunt and battery storage room. I am seriously thinking about a custom build with BMS that allows for much more room in the compartment or foregoing the pull-tray completely - since the LFP’s weigh so much less. Any suggestions, always welcomed. Also, if I understand your comment correctly, the battery temp is wired directory from the battery bank to the BMS and then transmitted to Color GX. All this is part of what I truly love about the TT customization. Oh, I did look at the Victron double face plate- it did not look like It would have worked in this application. It’s not just a faceplate but rather a faceplate that connects to a box. Not enough room. I did use double sided tape to install my FP so it should be easy to change if find something better, etc. Regards,
-
I have to admit it is probably more for looks looks and symmetry, although I do love old world analog devices in the days of high tech. Reading the manual, I got the notion of what you are talking about (it is very easy to get to and adjust though).
I forgot about the fan, @John and @Overlander recommended. Very nice and safe with the kiddo's into everything.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00144A5HE/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_TefmDbHMBVMXP
2 in Bulldog coupler FAILED
in Towing an Oliver
Posted · Edited by rideadeuce
"On the road again!". Ramblers, I do feel fortunate that nothing serious happened to my family or anyone else on the road. When saner minds prevailed and after a few hours of sleep. I got out the tools and took off the broken coupler and headed to a Bulldog dealer (A and A Hitch) in Bradenton, FL. Mechanic/welder since 1985, said he had never seen one do that.
Upgraded to the 2- 5/16 in coupler. 12,500 lb pull capacity and 1875 lb tongue load. A and A Hitch drilled the holes for me.
Weight distribution device was never used (not needed?) pulls like and sits like an arrow, tongue weight always within spec (Yamaha 2200 gen since day 1 in basket), maybe 20K on frame, 2018 Tundra pulled without incident since day 1, mostly beach, MI and CO trips.
Special thanks to @Mossemi and others for feedback and willingness to help. It really made me feel better and helped me make a better decision on how to rectify.
Also, when looking at the broken coupler you can see where there was a seminal break that is rusted and then the subsequent clean fracture. The only thing holding it together was the top plate that was bent up. Check proximal to the neck for cracks. This happed without warning and I did not see the cracks from the outside.
Side note: I like the gray paint. It may help someone see cracks vs. the standard black.
Best,
Mike