6 volt battery question

[Monty]

I have read the discussions on 12 volt deep cycle marine batteries versus 2 -6 volt golf cart batteries and I am convinced the latter is the way to go. I want to upgrade, but since I already have 2 deep cycle 12 volt batteries, I would like to take advantage of them as well. Question: Can I add the 2 golf cart batteries to the existing setup of 2- 12 volt deep cycle marine batteries or do I need to add an A/B switch to only run one “set� at a time? I understand how to physically connect them so that I get the correct voltage, but are there other factors to consider?

[Lloyd]

Monty, I can understand your wanting to use the 12 v that are all ready there, but if you are going to bite the bullet and buy two deep cycle golf cart batteries, my thoughts are, get rid of the old ones and start fresh. I think you will be a lot happier in the long run.
I took my two 12v out this spring--sold them--and bought two new T105 Trojans. I also installed a 135 solar panel. We do a lot of dry camping. I also changed out the battery cables. Made up all new ones out #6 welder cable with solder connections.

[Korbe & Diana]

I would use the 12v until it's time to upgrade, then upgrade to the 6v. If I where to use all the batteries, I would keep them separate with a switch.

[wsc01q]

Two 6 volt batteries are the way to go. Unless you have a big reason or do extended dry camping, I would avoid the extra weight and complexity of the 4-way setup. Weight is the plague of the RV world. Tire wear, blowouts and fuel consumption make me ultra cautious about what I carry. Everything has to be needed or else it doesn't go. So much stuff that the DW wants on board can be bought at the destination and even if it's more expensive you probably saved in the fuel to haul it.

[rock1424]

You are right that the two 6 volts is the way to go. I switched from two 12V Interstate RV/Marine batteries to two Trojan T125s this year and my only regret is that I hadn't done it sooner. I didn't even consider keeping the 12 volts and I don't think I would want to give up the storage space to keep them on board. I would think that you would certainly have to separate them with a switch if you did keep them, as I understand it the weaker amp hour capacity of the 12 v batteries would lessen the performance of the 6 v batteries. (If that makes any sense...)