Dual Battery Setup??? Winch???

[Ihasfip]

I just want to start off that I am sooooooo confused. I have read endless threads and setups of dual batteries. I don't want to have a complex setup. I really want something simple. Just an aux battery for winching and running lights and fans. I am not THAT electrical savy. I just want something that will allow me to winch and not fry/kill my alternator and main battery. I don't quit understand the battery isolator deal, and I don't mind getting out and switching a switch but would prefer something that could automatically switch or could be switched in the cab. Someone want to point me to something possible that can do what I need? Keep in mind I have SEARCHED. And I have READ alot. But I still need someone to lay it out for someone as un electrically versed as me. Thanks for your time.

D

 

[Ihasfip]

Ok so I did find this

auxiliary battery and winch

but I am having a little trouble deciphering his schematics

http://www.george4wd.taskled.com/auxbat/wiring.gif

and what exactly do I need to purchase to make this kit work?

Thanks again...

 

[Salue]

I copied this setup and used Diehard Platinum 34M's. Pretty simple.

Baja Overland

Good luck with the decision process!

Salue

 

[Brian894X4]

Give WrangerNW a call. They can sell you a whole set up, wires and solenoid and everything.

It won't be as cheap as piecing it together from various parts and homemade, but might be easier in your situation.

Wrangler NW - Power Products

The system you probably want are something like what I have (although mine is custom with various parts) where a solenoid is controlled from the cab and you can manually connect or disconnect the two batteries or leave it so that the batteries connect and disconnect automatically, when the rig is turned on and off.

The batteries can stay connected while the rig is running, so that both batteries are charging off of the alternator and you have double the capacity while winching, etc. They are then disconnected when the vehicle is turned off, so that if one battery (usually the main battery) goes dead, you always have a good battery to jump off of and so that two batteries, which will aways have slightly different voltages, don't drain off of each other, eventually ruining them. You can also run accessories with the vehicle off, off of one battery, while not affecting the other.

If this is all too complicated and all you're basically looking for is extra capacity with the vehicle running....you don't necessariliy need duel batteries. You could also just stuff in the biggest or highest capacity battery you can find. The real purpose of a duel battery system is mainly for back up, if one battery fails or is discharged and to be able to run accessories with the vehicle shut off, while leaving one battery unaffected.

For just winching or running high drain accessories with the vehicle running, a very, very large main battery and a higher output alternator may be the better choice.

The thing about installing duel batteries is that you really should know what you're doing, because you're dealing with installing leads between the batteries or to a switch or solenoid that could short out and cause a fire, if you aren't careful.

 

[Lka1988]

I was in your position once. An isolator would probably be your best option.

Checker offers a Surepower isolator that is simple and works fine. The local power company uses Surepower isolators in their heavy duty trucks.

In your case, you can use a battery tray from a 1991 or 1992 that will bolt directly in. You just need to move the washer bottle. Slee carries a relocation kit.

 

[Ihasfip]

Thanks for the replies guys. I am fairly decent with electronics, stereos, amps, lights, fans, etc. But I want this right like you said. This is like playing with fire, and one mistake could result in my truck burning to the ground. I will look into the links you posted.

I also thought about just a BIG ASS BATTERY, but I was afraid the factory alternator couldn't keep up. I am not spending 400$ on a Mean Green, that got s***ty reviews. I already seem to have an issue with the alternator not keeping up with electric fans, lights, stock headlights, and cb. So...maybe I can get my alternator suped up.

D

 

[Lka1988]

Thanks for the replies guys. I am fairly decent with electronics, stereos, amps, lights, fans, etc. But I want this right like you said. This is like playing with fire, and one mistake could result in my truck burning to the ground. I will look into the links you posted.

I also thought about just a BIG ASS BATTERY, but I was afraid the factory alternator couldn't keep up. I am not spending 400$ on a Mean Green, that got ****ty reviews. I already seem to have an issue with the alternator not keeping up with electric fans, lights, stock headlights, and cb. So...maybe I can get my alternator suped up.

D

I have no issues with 130W Hellas, stock low/high beams, electric fan, CB, not-factory stereo, all at the same time... I do have a new OEM alternator, though.

Check your alternator per the FSM, make sure it's working properly.

 

[Corbet]

A group 31 battery would probably serve you well for everything you want. With the possible exception of long winching sessions, but that can even kill dual batteries. I have a single optima group 31 personally and so far has done the job. Winch/lights/HAM, and a fridge that has not ben turned off in over a year. I do want to add a second in the future but other things are higher on the list given the cost of a high end dual set up.

my $.02

 

[Ihasfip]

Well, then I think it is time to just get a new alternator or see if mine can be beefed up. If ya'll are running all this without issue. And I don't plan to have to use the winch much. Plus I stay out of the mud. So most pulls will be short I would imagine. Thanks for the input.

D

 

[Lka1988]

It's nice to have a winch, I'll say that. After having been in situations thinking "man, I could really use a winch right now"