The Correct 4D house battery connections

Jeffrey · 03-21-2013, 10:12 AM

Just a heads up to those replacing the 4D house battery. SMB apparently specs the batteries to have 'marine' terminals rather than 'vehicle' terminals. So, I had to send back the new Lifeline battery for a different one and lose a week in the process. Be sure to spec 'marine' when you order. They are the flat terminals with the through hole, NOT the round posts.

chromisdesigns · 03-21-2013, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffrey

Just a heads up to those replacing the 4D house battery. SMB apparently specs the batteries to have 'marine' terminals rather than 'vehicle' terminals. So, I had to send back the new Lifeline battery for a different one and lose a week in the process. Be sure to spec 'marine' when you order. They are the flat terminals with the through hole, NOT the round posts.

Or just pick up a pair of terminal converter posts -- they are used all the time on boats, so you don't have to get the special "marine" terminals. They can actually be an advantage, in that you can turn them on the round battery post as needed to get the best angle for the battery cables.

**daveb** · 03-21-2013, 01:42 PM

Jeffery are you sure they are marine terminals? If I were you I'd contact SMB to make sure. SMB during that year did not use marine terminals or standard auto terminals, they used a flat spade type lug.

Also concerning adaptors, some builds require a specific height battery+terminal. Deka batteries terminal were trimmed in some cases to gain correct clearance. Lifeline batteries sit slightly lower. Just make sure the new battery has the same ride height as the old one and the cover has a bit of space between the lid and the chassis above it. It's also a good idea to tie the batteries down with a ratchet strap. If for whatever reason the battery jumps or rubs through the battery box lid, you can catch the van on fire and/or burn up a ton of stuff in your van...been there and done that!

**daveb** · 03-21-2013, 02:01 PM

Here is a Lifeline L type terminal. This is not considered a marine terminal.

jage · 03-22-2013, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by daveb

Here is a Lifeline L type terminal. This is not considered a marine terminal.

That's what I have. I must have been lucky ordering.

Jeffrey · 03-22-2013, 10:35 AM

Perhaps I used the 'marine terminal' incorrectly. That's what the battery dealer told me. However, whatever you call it, it is the flat blade type as pictured. Thanks, Dave.

**daveb** · 03-22-2013, 11:07 AM

They probably call it a marine terminal because they are used in large boat systems. Most marine batteries like those used in small fishing boats have lugs that secure the bus wire with a wing nut.

Good luck and hope they don't nail you for shipping.

sdwindansea · 03-22-2013, 11:53 AM

Jeffrey, thanks for the heads up on that. Especially since our vans are almost the same age. What made you decide to change out your battery? Mine still seems to have some decent life to it.

CJ · 03-22-2013, 03:28 PM

Jeffery, where did you get your battery? I am in need and as soon as I can make up my mind on whether or not to add an additional one I'm going to pull the trigger.

Anyone have lessons learned or advise for adding and additional house battery.

Thanks

**daveb** · 03-22-2013, 03:37 PM

Stay clear of Universal. JMO