I hear a banging noise!

[Randy Perry]

I hear a banging noise that sounds like it coming from my inverter??? I'm plugged in and the noise (like a single bang) is 20 to 30 seconds apart. Am I hearing things or is it ready to blow?  

[Paul Schwalen]

Randy,

On my 03 Contessa there is a large solenoid that switches the charge from the house batteries to the chassis batteries after the house batteries are full of charge.  This causes the solenoid to snap shut and if you are still drawing current from the house batteries (ie lights on, etc) after a short time the solenoid will switch back to charging the house batteries (which is the priority).  This continues until both sets of batteries are fully charged.  I have not been able to adjust the inverter charge cycle to give it more leeway before it switches over and have gotten used to the annoying noise.

Paul

[George Harwell]

I have the same situation on my 03 Monterey. Last week around 3:00 am it started doing its thing and that makes sleeping difficult. It is not normal for it to continue switching. When I got home I serviced the batterys and cleaned the terminals. I had the same situation on a 98 H.R. Endeavor and was told by the tech service guys to locate the B.I.R.D. module (on the Monterey it is mounted on the door) and disconnect the wire from the terminal labeled chassis battery. I followed their guidance and never heard the relay again. Be advised, this procedure prevents charging of the chassis batterys when connected to shore power. If you start or drive the coach at least monthly the alternator will keep the batterys charged. If I hear the clunking again I will be disconnecting the chassis battery terminal on the B.I.R.D. as I seldom go more than 2 weeks between engine starts. Hope this helps you understand whats going on. The door I mentioned is above the batterys and opened with the round key although it could be different on your coach. Have a good day.

[Randy Perry]

Thanks Paul and George for the info.