Lead Acid to LiFePO4 Conversion

[JayJay11]

We've had our Jayco travel trailer since 2020 and have logged 30K+ miles with everything stock. This year we are taking it to Alaska and I want to convert the lead acid deep cycle battery to a LiFePO4 battery (12V 100Ah or 150Ah). I think I want to permanently mount it inside under the dinette bench, which is open to both side storage compartments, and remove the current box holding the lead acid battery giving me more tongue space. In addition to charging this new battery using shore power (when available) and future solar panels, I also want the tow vehicle (Chevy Express van) to charge the battery while moving. Currently blade #4 in the 7 blade connector provides power that charges my lead acid battery. I have learned that I will need a DC to DC converter for the LiFePO4 battery, but will need to learn about voltage drop and the gauge of wiring, and also if others use the center pin #7 on the connector for this power (in lieu of reverse lights). I assume many people have made this kind of change (Lead Acid to LiFePO4) and I am looking for existing threads with this kind of information OR other resources people have found helpful. Thanks in advance!

 

[JayJay11]

I should have searched first. I found this helpful link:

Question - ❓Riddle me this Batman (LiFePo4 vs. Vehicle Alternators)

I’ve read about various tow vehicles destroying their alternators across the internet when trying to charge LiFePo4 Batteries in route to/from campgrounds. To allievate such supposedly* a DC-To-DC Converter is required, so the LiFePo4 batteries are isolated from your vehicle’s alternator. My...

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