Dual battery system...

cewtwo · #1 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 04:48 PM

I am going to put dual batteries under the hood of my '93 YJ. My question is pretty basic. They will be optimizer batteries. We are very active in off road activities, but there via the highway.
We are going to add a 4 light 100 watt night lighting package. We do have a Warn XD9000i winch.
What is the best way to use dual batteries?
Should we install a circuit breaker relay?
Should we install an isolator system?
Should we install an electrical management system?

Any input would be appreciated.

yjdave · #2 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 08:41 PM

I run dual yellow top optima deep cycle batteries. I bought the dual tray from a place called wrangler nw (in portland,or) then went and got a big relay from the a place called united bateries(any electrical/battery shop--not parts store)Then wired them in parralel seperating the 2 w/ the relay. You can wire a toggle switch to the relay to isolate the main battery for normal jeep operation, and keep the other for the winch and whatever else. Wrangler NW has a good book with diagrams for different set-ups. Check it out...

cewtwo · #3 (**permalink**) 08-24-2005, 06:00 PM

I got the dual battery tray, an extra battery and a Hell Roaring BIC (battery isolator/combo). The system is in and has passed all of the tests. I have also ordered an inverter to power my electronic needs. I do need a lighting package now. Hmmm...

cewtwo · #4 (**permalink**) 10-07-2005, 04:49 PM

This was actually pretty easy to install (and think out prior to installing). Yes, I know they are Red Top Optimizers (but I already had one in there). I got the BIC - Battery Isolator Combo - from HellRoaring Technologies. This pic does not show the dash board indicator.

I do have an air tank for the Quick Air 2 under the dual battery tray...

With my inverter from eBay, I can (should I want to) roast coffee beans, grind them and then brew the coffee at a trail stop. Oh, yeah - Really fresh coffee is another passion of mine...