MESDA6
Member
We have a 1992 Horton Ambulance (Ford E350) that is used as a Command Post, an equipment hauler, and a place to get EM personnel out of the weather on scene when necessary. The unit only sees extended use a few times a year, and otherwise sits, plugged-in using the on-board Kussmaul unit.
This unit was manufactured so that the Kussmaul charges only the engine starting battery. The 2nd battery seems to operate items such as tail lights, turn signals, some other lights and accessories, etc. The problem is that the 2nd battery rarely gets up to full charge since the alternator is the only way to charge it, and even when it does, starting the unit and running it on short trips once or twice a month is not enough to keep the battery at full duty. (Battery - Optima Yellow Top tests good and was installed within the last year. it simply seems to be a matter of not enough use.)
Given the age of the unit, we think it's easier to stick a battery tender on the 2nd battery and just add a 2nd extension cord to be plugged in, instead of trying to do some re-wiring or changing to a dual battery Kussmaul. I have yet to find the Kussmaul charger. It's buried within the vehicle behind a panel somewhere, not in a compartment.
Is there any reason not to add a battery tender for the 2nd battery? I figured someone here (maybe John?) has experience with Horton units of this vintage and can relate any experience with them. Thanks.
This unit was manufactured so that the Kussmaul charges only the engine starting battery. The 2nd battery seems to operate items such as tail lights, turn signals, some other lights and accessories, etc. The problem is that the 2nd battery rarely gets up to full charge since the alternator is the only way to charge it, and even when it does, starting the unit and running it on short trips once or twice a month is not enough to keep the battery at full duty. (Battery - Optima Yellow Top tests good and was installed within the last year. it simply seems to be a matter of not enough use.)
Given the age of the unit, we think it's easier to stick a battery tender on the 2nd battery and just add a 2nd extension cord to be plugged in, instead of trying to do some re-wiring or changing to a dual battery Kussmaul. I have yet to find the Kussmaul charger. It's buried within the vehicle behind a panel somewhere, not in a compartment.
Is there any reason not to add a battery tender for the 2nd battery? I figured someone here (maybe John?) has experience with Horton units of this vintage and can relate any experience with them. Thanks.