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Winter is near and hopefully you’re prepping your RV so once spring season comes, your trailer still in tip top shape for camping. Have you completed everything on your checklist? Don’t forget that one of the most important steps for winter storage is to keep your batteries in good shape! A common mistake that RV owners make is leaving their battery plugged into the RV converter to maintain its charge while in storage.

Why shouldn’t I keep my batteries plugged in all winter?

Keeping your batteries plugged in all winter long results in overcharging the battery. RV battery converters charge at a constant voltage that is too high for the battery over such a long period of time. Overcharging results in a fried battery that will no longer function to its full potential. The constant high voltage causes the electrolytes necessary for battery function to boil out, leaving the battery permanently damaged. Battery replacement can cost hundreds of dollars.

Should I leave it unplugged all winter?

That’s also not recommended. If your battery is left sitting and discharges to low enough levels for a long period of time, it will no longer be able to perform or charge up to its full potential. The battery charge capacity is also effected and won’t hold charges for as long as it had originally. Many think a quick fix is just to simply add water and recharge. This unfortunately doesn’t help the battery regain its charging ability. You’re still stuck with a battery that isn’t operating to its full potential.

What can I do to AVOID either overcharging or undercharging my RV batteries?

Torklift has designed a high-quality locking aluminum solar battery box called the PowerArmor Solar. It features a lockable slide top that can easily be accessed no matter the mounting location.  This box comes in a bright tread diamond plate design featuring a black high impact powder-coated frame for durability. The box bolts directly to RV, trailer tongue, boat, camper bumper, etc. The PowerArmor Solar also has an access port that allows electrical wires to pass through the side wall of the box to easily connect to your electrical circuit system and keep them safe.

More features of the PowerArmor Solar include:

• Prevent common and expensive storage/battery theft (lock included)
• Maintains charge increasing the longevity of the batteries up to 400% to avoid premature battery replacement (solar only)
• Dual use for securing batteries and other gear
• Bolts to your RV, camper bumper, boat, truck, van, etc.
• Heavy gauge diamond plate aluminum for maximum durability
• Designed specifically to access RV batteries avoiding interference with your RV
• Uses a 10 watt solar panel (solar only)
• Comes in bright tread diamond plate featuring black high impact powder coat frame
• Multiple box sizes available holding up to five batteries
• Adjustable dividers for custom size compartment storage (PowerArmor Max only)
• Acid neutralizing battery mat to avoid corrosion
• Legendary Lifetime Warranty
• Proudly made in the USA

How does the PowerArmor Solar keep my batteries charged?

The PowerArmor Solar locking battery box features a Zamp 10-watt solar panel that extends battery life up to 400% and prevents premature battery replacement. This means that you can keep your battery plugged into the PowerArmor Solar all winter and it will trickle charge your battery – ensuring that it maintains its existing condition all winter. The slow trickle charge reduces the chances of both over and undercharging with exposure to sunlight.

But what if I have more than one battery?

The PowerArmor and PowerArmor Solar are offered in multiple different sizes for all your RVing and boat battery needs. Including the PowerArmor MAX that holds up to five batteries.

• PowerArmor Single*: 17-inch box can hold one group 24-27 battery (perfect for marine applications).
• PowerArmor DH and PowerArmor Solar: 24-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries. The 26-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries, and two group 31 batteries.
• PowerArmor MAX: 58-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries, two group 31, four 31 or 27, or five group 24 batteries.

Torklift’s PowerArmor Solar battery box meets all your needs and protects your batteries over the winter season. For questions or more information on the PowerArmor and PowerArmor Solar, call us at 800.246.8132 or visit our website torklift.com.

*A7720RS PowerArmor Solar Single requires use of 6-amp Regulator to avoid overcharging battery.
*Use of PowerArmor Solar does not replace general recommended inspection and maintenance of batteries.

Written by Shyann Guerra:

Being in an environment in which I can problem solve is where I flourish. Every answer to a problem leads me to a new concept to understand or a lesson to learn. When I'm not solving problems I enjoy camping and going to festivals with my family - from the local city center festivals to the mountains of Wenatchee at the Winter Grass, blue grass music festival. Experiencing culture is where my heart is content.  

Are you in need of a solution to avoid undercharging or overcharging your RV batteries? The two most common causes of RV battery failure are these two issues – undercharging and overcharging, which lead to you having to pay to replace your batteries sooner than you should have to. This costs you both time and money that you could have used toward your camping trips.

When batteries go long periods of time with no charge or not fully recharging between cycles, the battery no longer performs at its full potential with the sulfate material hardening into crystals. This results in batteries that lose the ability to hold a charge, which is also known as sulfation. If left on a charger for too long, this results in overcharging the battery which causes severe water loss and plate corrosion, leaving you with a fried battery… and empty wallet.

So, what’s the best way to maintain your batteries? At Torklift, we have designed a high-quality locking aluminum battery box called the PowerArmor and PowerArmor Solar. They both feature a lockable slide top that can easily be accessed no matter the mounting location. The PowerArmor Solar is built with a Zamp, 10-watt solar panel that extends battery life up to 400% and prevents premature battery replacement – saving you money and frustration of batteries going bad! The PowerArmor boxes come with a heavy gauge diamond plate that features a black high-impact powder coated frame. Boxes can bolt directly to your RV, boat, trailer tongue, camper bumper and more.

Another great feature of the PowerArmor is the access port that allows electrical wires to pass through the side wall of the box, easily connecting the RV batteries to your electrical circuit system and keeping the batteries locked safely inside – giving you easy access wherever you store it. The solar panel attached to the lid of the PowerArmor Solar allows your batteries to slowly trickle charge with its easy wiring system. This means that you prevent overcharging and undercharging your batteries when the panel is exposed to minimal sunlight – making your batteries last much longer than they normally would in any other storage condition.

Will the PowerArmor hold and charge multiple batteries?

The PowerArmor is available in many different sizes to fit all your RVing and boating needs.

PowerArmor and PowerArmor Solar

• 17-inch box can hold up to one group 24-27 battery
• 24-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries
• 26-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries, and two group 31 batteries

PowerArmor MAX

• 58-inch box can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries, two group 31, four 31 or 27, or five group 24 batteries.

It’s that easy?

Yes! But, don’t just take our word for it. George Brown commented on Torklift International’s Facebook page with a review on how much he enjoys his PowerArmor Solar and how it makes his life easier...

            “Nothing like a little maintenance to make life go a little easier.” – George Brown

Thanks George for sharing your review of the PowerArmor Solar MAX and for supporting Torklift products! Torklift has PowerArmor Solar boxes to meet all your needs and give your RV batteries a longer life. For questions or more information on the PowerArmor and PowerArmor Solar battery boxes call us at 800.246.8132 or visit a Torklift Certified Dealer near you.

 Written by Shyann Guerra:
Being in an environment in which I can problem solve is where I flourish. Every answer to a problem leads me to a new concept to understand or a lesson to learn. When I'm not solving problems I enjoy camping and going to festivals with my family - from the local city center festivals to the mountains of Wenatchee at the Winter Grass, blue grass music festival. Experiencing culture is where my heart is content. 

With so many types of batteries available, it can be difficult to know which type you need for your towable. Do you need a large battery that will provide more power, or a battery just for small things? Depending how much power you need, there are various battery sizes – the most common is a group 24 battery and a group 27 battery, also known as “house batteries.” The group 24 battery is a good choice if you are limited on space or only have smaller accessories you need to power.

The most important thing to consider when purchasing a battery for your towable is the amount of power you need. Deep cycle batteries come in all different sizes. Some are designated by group size, like group 24, 27 and 31. The larger the battery the more amp hours you get. The same can be said for the types of batteries you get. Although all group 24 batteries are the same size, the brand of the battery will also make a difference. Some recommended battery brands with the best power span for a towable are Trojan, Interstate and Exide. You can read about the best batteries for your RV here.

With a larger battery also comes more amp hour reserve capacity. If you have more space available to you, a 6-volt battery, also known as a group 29 and 31 battery, will meet your needs. With battery theft a major concern, including a recent growth of battery theft in Canada, how can you protect your investment?

The PowerArmor Solar
Torklift has designed a high-quality locking aluminum battery box with solar panel that features a uniquely designed sliding lid that can be easily accessed no matter the mounting location. This box comes with an aluminum tread diamond plate featuring a black high-impact powder coated frame for durability. The battery box bolts directly to your RV, trailer tongue, boat, camper bumper and more. With an access port that allows electrical wires to pass through the side wall, you can easily connect the box and batteries to your circuit system. The PowerArmor Solar extends battery life up to 400% and prevents premature battery replacement with the 10-watt solar panel attached to the lid. 

• 17-inch box (A7720RS) can hold up to one group 24 or 27 battery – perfect for marine applications or if you only have room for one battery*
• 24-inch box (A7708RS) can hold up to two group 24 and 27 batteries
• 26-inch box (A7712RS) can hold up to two group 24 and 27 batteries, or two group 31 batteries

PowerArmor Max Solar

• A7710R Box holds up to two group 24, 27 and 31 batteries, up to four 31 or 27 batteries, or five group 24 batteries
• PowerArmor Max comes with adjustable dividers to customize storage compartment size

PowerArmor DH
This PowerArmor battery box design has many of the same features as the PowerArmor Solar, but without the 10-watt solar panel. With a safe, lockable storage box available in multiple sizes, the battery or extra camping gear you store in the PowerArmor is safe from theft and tampering. 

• 17-inch box (A7720R) can hold up to one group 24 or 27 battery 
• 24-inch box (A7708R) can hold up to two group 24 and 27 batteries
• 26-inch box (A7712R) can hold up to two group 24 and 27 batteries, and two group 31 batteries

PowerArmor Max

• A7710RS holds up to two group 24-27 batteries and two group 31, or four 31 or 27, or five group 24 batteries
• Comes with adjustable dividers to customize storage compartment size

Each battery box has a ventilated design to prevent batteries from overheating, as well as an acid neutralizing mat to avoid corrosion. All Torklift International PowerArmor battery boxes come with locks, a Legendary Lifetime Warranty and are made in the USA.

With a locking battery box, you can prevent common battery theft and also use them to safely store other gear once you choose which battery is the perfect fit for what you need. Using a proper storage method, like the PowerArmor, you can keep your batteries in optimum condition year round, saving cost on premature battery replacement. For more information on any of our battery products contact us at 800.246.8132. 

*A7720RS requires use of a 6-amp regulator. Details here.

Written by Shyann Guerra:
Being in an environment in which I can problem solve is where I flourish. Every answer to a problem leads me to a new concept to understand or a lesson to learn. When I'm not solving problems I enjoy camping and going to festivals with my family - from the local city center festivals to the mountains of Wenatchee at the Winter Grass, blue grass music festival. Experiencing culture is where my heart is content. 

Well, how much the PowerArmor costs will ultimately depend on whether you’re talking about “figuratively” or the actual price of the product. There are a few questions you should ask yourself before we get into the details of the PowerArmor battery box and what it can do for you:

How much is your peace of mind worth to you?

What is the price would you pay to protect the hundreds of dollars you’ve already invested in RV batteries?

Have you been looking for a way to store your RV batteries, or a more secure way?

Do you want to extend your battery life up to 400% and prevent yourself from having to prematurely replace your batteries and instead spend that money elsewhere?

If you came up with some solid answers of “yes” or “peace of mind is worth anything to me” or “oh, saving money… more to spend on food” then we definitely have an answer for you - the PowerArmor! Coming in multiple sizes and varieties, the PowerArmor is the perfect solution to your RV battery storage issues as well as any other extra camping gear you want to bring along! Read below to find the battery box that is perfect for you.

PowerArmor Solar

• Works with both 6 volt and 12 volt batteries, can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries

oThe 26 ¾” PowerArmor can also hold two group 31 batteries 
o The 17 ¾” PowerArmor Solar hold a single battery (great for marine applications!)

• Manufactured with black high impact powder coated trim for durability as well as diamond plate tread
• Comes in three lengths – 17 ¾” (A7720RS), 24” (A7712RS) and 26 ¾” (A7708RS)
• Comes standard with a 10-watt solar panel to trickle charge your batteries so they never lose their power 

o The solar panel easily maintains battery life by not under or overcharging them, keeping them in great condition and extending your battery investment. 

• Starts at $468.99

PowerArmor DH

• Works with both 6 volt and 12 volt batteries, can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries

o The 26 ¾” PowerArmor can also hold two group 31 batteries 
o The 17 ¾” PowerArmor hold a single battery (is also great for boat and marine applications!)

• Manufactured with high impact powder coat for durability as well as diamond plate tread
• Comes in three lengths – 17 ¾” (A7720R), 23 7/8” (A7712R) and 26 ¾” (A7708R)
• Starts at $310.99

PowerArmor MAX

• Works with both 6 volt and 12 volt batteries, can hold up to two group 24-27 batteries with plenty of room for extra storage, four group 27 and 31 batteries, or five group 24 batteries
• Manufactured with high impact powder coat for durability as well as diamond plate tread
• Comes in one length: 58 ½” (A7710R)
• Also has a solar panel option that comes with a 10-watt solar panel to constantly keep your RV batteries charged (A7710RS)
• Starts at $525.99

Features of PowerArmor battery boxes Include:

• Prevent common and expensive storage/battery theft (lock included)
• Maintains charge increasing the longevity of the batteries up to 400% to avoid premature battery replacement (solar only)
• Dual use for securing batteries and other gear
• Bolts to your RV, camper bumper, truck, van, etc.
• Heavy gauge diamond plate aluminum for maximum durability
• Designed specifically to access RV batteries avoiding interference with your RV
• Uses a 10 watt solar panel (solar only)
• Comes in bright tread diamond plate featuring black high impact powder coat frame
• Multiple box sizes available holding up to five batteries
• Adjustable dividers for custom size compartment storage (PowerArmor Max only)
• Acid neutralizing battery mat to avoid corrosion
• Legendary Lifetime Warranty
• Proudly made in the USA

All PowerArmors come with the box itself, a lock, battery hold down straps, mounting hardware, acid neutralizing mats and if you’re getting the PowerArmor Solar, it comes with a 10-watt Zamp solar panel. Batteries that go inside the box are not included.

To keep your peace of mind and start protecting your battery investment with this top-of-the-line battery box, call us at 800.246.8132 or email us at:support at torklift.com.

Written by Kerstin Stokes:
As a graduate from the College of Idaho with a B.A. in both History and Art, Kerstin has found her passion for writing and marketing. She enjoys looking up tasty recipes for baking and daydreaming about future travels.