2020 Lithium RB 150 Low Roof PH Build

[FlaJoe]

Fitz, on the topic of need for solar, seems like a potential weak link in the lithium system, and removal of the solar panels, would be that low hanging 2nd alternator becoming submerged or otherwise damaged. Curious what folks think?

[Fitz]

The alternator can handle being submerged and the Van Compass skid plate package will protect the alternator from physical damage. Redundancy is great and I’m all for it, but I still question the “need” vs. the “want” for solar when you typically have 600 Amp Hours available in your battery bank.

Would I install solar if it were my build? Most likely, but it would likely be a small system with a primary design basis of being able to maintain the batteries when the van is sitting idle for an extended period of time.

I currently have an AGM system and we very seldom stay in one spot for more than one day at a time, thus the engine is running and the house and engine batteries are being charged via the alternator on a regular basis. As I said before, additional input needed from those who have robust lithium systems and who typically travel vs. sit in one place for long, which is what I believe you said will be your typical use case.

Decisions, decisions, decisions, you have a lot of them to make! One thing I would do for sure (I did) is to pre-wire for a portable suitcase panel so we are set up for solar input when we do finally slow down and change our style of travel.

[FlaJoe]

I was hoping the alternator was robust enough to be submerged. Good info and I forgot about the skid plates.

On another note, 3.92 v. 4.18: In talking to a Mercedes dealer today, thinking I might be able to accelerate a late 2020 delivery date by locating a Sprinter myself, the dealer suggested that with the 7 speed transmission the 4.18 may not be needed. Everything I read suggests with the added weight and larger tires, the 4.18 would improve the circumstances. That said, I don't believe most discussions are dealing with the newer 7 speed transmission. Does anyone have any observations on the pros and cons? Thanks

[Fitz]

In Post #11 above you said: Looks like I will go with either the 285/70/17 (32.7") or the 34x10.5/17LT (33.5").

Starting with the 4.18, here are the ratios for the tires sizes you listed:
285/70/17 (32.7") - 3.88
34x10.5/17LT (33.5") - 3.77

My fully built out rig with the 3.92 is currently running 265/70/17's and all is well with a ratio of 3.77. I am planning to move to a larger tire - 285/70/17's - with a ratio of 3.60 and I am a bit concerned that I will be giving up too much. Time will tell, but sometimes you just have to try it for yourself to find out!


If I had the option for the 4.18 I would go for it. If the van uses a bit more fuel going down the road at highway speed, so what - it will be able to get up to speed a lot faster! That said, remember that I work in a refinery that produces diesel fuel, thus it's in my best interest to encourage high use!

[FlaJoe]

I appreciate full and fair disclosures---- that's the attorney in me! I'm not the suing type though! I did some math above, and it looks like I need to study and understand the ratios a bit more.

[COman]

Joe,
I’m home ported in Pagosa Springs, CO as well. Have been since 1976.
Currently sporting a 2012 SMB on a Nissan NV 2500 chassis.
When you’ve left Jupiter’s orbit and head to your SMB “home port” give me a shout. I’m sure we can think of something to talk about.
Regards,
COman

[FlaJoe]

Curious whether persevering throughly SMB to get a build done ever turned to jubilation? ��

[Fitz]

I came away from the process a happy and satisfied customer.

[FlaJoe]

Now looks like 2021! That's a long time.

[Fitz]

Yes it is.
We live in CA and were able to locate a van in Texas. If I were doing it now I would be spending my time searching the MB sales system for the van I wanted (wherever it might be) vs. placing an order for it with SMB and waiting.