So, in the saga of my build, I've hit the "every step relies on and dictates every other step" phase, and I'm a bit paralyzed. I have a general layout in mind, but one snag I'm hitting centers around the batteries. Namely, their weight/size. See attached photo for *rough* layout.
I picked up two 140ah AGMs that weigh roughly 110 lbs a piece (according to the guy at the battery shop) -- 220 lbs total. Either way, they're HEAVY. They each measure roughly 13.5" x 6.75" x 11"
So, given that I'm planning most of my build weight for the driver's side of the van (galley complete w/ fridge, water tank, etc.), I figured, "Gee, I'll just put the batteries forward of the passenger wheel well to add some load to the passenger side." Simple, right?
Not so fast. Putting the batteries over there (yes, waaay over there) presents a number of issues:
- Wiring will be much more difficult. The alternator charge cable will have to snake around the van like crazy and be roughly 25' long. The frame pillar just forward of the wheel well is constricted due to the sliding door assembly. Kitchen appliances will have to be wired much further. Etc. and so forth
- The battery box will have to be oddly shaped. As opposed to a generally rectangular cabinet due to interference with an old school bus bench seat I plan to install in that area.
There are more reasons, but I'll spare you all of those and pose my question...
Does it matter if the majority of my build weight is along the driver's side wall? Am I over-thinking this??
I picked up two 140ah AGMs that weigh roughly 110 lbs a piece (according to the guy at the battery shop) -- 220 lbs total. Either way, they're HEAVY. They each measure roughly 13.5" x 6.75" x 11"
So, given that I'm planning most of my build weight for the driver's side of the van (galley complete w/ fridge, water tank, etc.), I figured, "Gee, I'll just put the batteries forward of the passenger wheel well to add some load to the passenger side." Simple, right?
Not so fast. Putting the batteries over there (yes, waaay over there) presents a number of issues:
- Wiring will be much more difficult. The alternator charge cable will have to snake around the van like crazy and be roughly 25' long. The frame pillar just forward of the wheel well is constricted due to the sliding door assembly. Kitchen appliances will have to be wired much further. Etc. and so forth
- The battery box will have to be oddly shaped. As opposed to a generally rectangular cabinet due to interference with an old school bus bench seat I plan to install in that area.
There are more reasons, but I'll spare you all of those and pose my question...
Does it matter if the majority of my build weight is along the driver's side wall? Am I over-thinking this??
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