Loren:

Wow, again, thanks for the quick answer. I'm a 90% kind of guy.

Last one:

Have called LeSchwab to get prices to test the batteries, to check for
a line draw, and cost to replace both batteries if needed. $220 to do
it all with group 41 batteries (650 cold cranking + 84 month battery
life and I assume LeSchwab anywhere replacement in the PNW.)

WalMart has two group 41s I can buy off the shelf and install myself
for $65 (650 cold cranking power + 24 month guarantee) but no check
for unknown line draw or confirmation that the existing batteries are
in fact dead.

What would you do? I'm leaning towards LeSchwab . . .

Thomas

On Apr 4, 2009, at 10:04AM, Loren Busch wrote:

> On Sat, Apr 4, 2009 at 9:38 AM, Thomas Kitts <thokitts@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>  Since I have the duel battery set up, is it smart to go ahead and
> replace both batteries at the same time, or just the starter battery
> under the passenger seat if it tests as bad? I understand the
> battery under the driver's seat is more difficult to access.
>
> Replacing both shouldn't be necessary unless both are bad, that is,
> won't take or hold a charge.
> Accessing the aux battery under the drivers seat is straight
> forward.  Slide the driver seat all the way forward and off the
> tracks, take it out.  This requires depressing a small lever on the
> rail at the front of the track.  Then rotate the swivel base 180
> degrees and you will have full access to the aux battery compartment.
>
> And, is there anything I should look for with regards to quality or
> cranking power? People talk about installing marine batteries but I
> don't understand why.
>
> Most exotic batteries that are installed are the aux battery though
> some have gone to the very expensive marine batteries for a starting
> battery.  That's their choice but I've never seen a compelling
> argument for doing that.
>
> Battery setups in a Vanagon or Vanagon Westy can range from simple
> and elegant to complicated and wonderful.  It all depends on the
> individual owner.  The KISS principle usually meets the requirements
> of 90% of owners.  As for the rating of the batteries if you live in
> a very cold climate and drive frequently in the Winter than that can
> be a consideration.  But any battery that fits is probably going to
> do the job for most.
>
>
>
>
>
>