Dual Battery Upgrade - The Modular Way (1 Viewer)

[TonyP]

This thread is devolved into about what I expected...

My data point, I had no issues with Lithium in the engine bay with 130+ degree intake temps. Still charged and discharged.

Battle Born has internal temp controls to prevent big issues

 

[Markuson]

This thread is devolved into about what I expected...

My data point, I had no issues with Lithium in the engine bay with 130+ degree intake temps. Still charged and discharged.

Battle Born has internal temp controls to prevent big issues

It’s a little different...but I deal with heat generated by my large inverter by mounting it in the rear driver space under the fit-kit of my ARB drawers.

Placed there, it sits a few inches away from the large, vent-out panel...so whether recirculating, or external air...the air next to the inverter is constantly exchanged. Found a long way toward heat dissipation.

Seems like a battery could sit there too...?

 

[eatSleepWoof]

Where would that be? Not the interior, and not the engine bay, so... where?

Just curious.

Some folks mount batteries in place of oem spare tire.

 

[TomasAllan]

Or you can do what I did and build yourself a portable DC/Solar Powered system, I personally do not (or extremely rarely) need AC power and if I do I keep a 1000w inverter handy in it's own case I can connect via Anderson Power Pole..

I have powered my ARB 82qt for days with this setup (with solar panel connected during the day), I have a Rockpals 100w foldable solar panel I bought on Amazon and works like a CHAMP!!! not to mention if I can use it to charge 3 iPads, 4 iphones for days before it even requires charging (not running the fridge at the same time off course).

You could also install a Renogy DC to DC charger on your car and charge it while simultaneously powering your fridge with it.

Bonus, you can check the status of your system via BlueTooth.

Shoe for reference (I wear 13)

And did I mention this whole setup can be probably had for under a grand <$1k (minus the dc to dc charger)
.
.

 

[Markuson]

Or you can do what I did and build yourself a portable DC/Solar Powered system, I personally do not (or extremely rarely) need AC power and if I do I keep a 1000w inverter handy on it's own case I can connect via Anderson Power Pole..

I have powered my ARB 82qt for days with this setup (with solar panel connected during the day), I have a Rockpals 100w solar foldable solar panel I bought on Amazon and works like a CHAMP!!! not to mention if I can use it to charge 3 iPads, 4 iphones for days before it even requires charging (not running the fridge at the same time off course).

You could also install a Renogy DC to DC charger on your car and charge it while simultaneously powering your fridge with it.

Bonus, you can check the status of your system via BlueTooth.

Wow.
That’s a fascinating approach.
Nice work!!

 

[TomasAllan]

Wow.
That’s a fascinating approach.
Nice work!!

Well thank you sir...

 

[Itsky]

Or you can do what I did and build yourself a portable DC/Solar Powered system, I personally do not (or extremely rarely) need AC power and if I do I keep a 1000w inverter handy on it's own case I can connect via Anderson Power Pole..

I have powered my ARB 82qt for days with this setup (with solar panel connected during the day), I have a Rockpals 100w solar foldable solar panel I bought on Amazon and works like a CHAMP!!! not to mention if I can use it to charge 3 iPads, 4 iphones for days before it even requires charging (not running the fridge at the same time off course).

You could also install a Renogy DC to DC charger on your car and charge it while simultaneously powering your fridge with it.

Bonus, you can check the status of your system via BlueTooth.

Shoe for reference (I wear 13)

And did I mention this whole setup can be probably had for under a grand <$1k (minus the dc to dc charger)
.
.

Sweet power pack! You did a great job building that!

Can you detail the parts? it looks like:
- 40ah lithium phosphate battery
- victron mppt controller
- pelican case
- rockpals 100w solar panel
- fusebox
- lcd panel

 

[TomasAllan]

Sweet power pack! You did a great job building that!

Can you detail the parts? it looks like:
- 40ah lithium phosphate battery
- victron mppt controller
- pelican case
- rockpals 100w solar panel
- fusebox
- lcd panel

Thank you ......


Can you detail the parts? it looks like:

- 40ah lithium phosphate battery
- victron mppt controller
- Apache case (Harbor Freight)
- rockpals 100w solar panel
- fusebox
- lcd panel - DONT BUY this one .... POS ..... I am switching to a "new one"

Some other parts:

Amazon.com: API-ELE [3 year warranty] 16mm Latching Push Button Switch 12V On Off Stainless Steel with LED Angel Eye Head for 0.63" Mounting Hole with Wire Socket Plug Self-locking(Red): Automotive
Amazon product ASIN B0772D9915Amazon.com: Neutrik NAC3FCA AC PowerCon CBL End-in, Blue: Home Audio & Theater
Amazon.com: Fastronix 40A 12V Type 1 Automatic Reset Circuit Breaker with Cover: Automotive
Amazon.com: Neutrik NAC3MPA-1 powerCON Chassis Connector - Blue: Musical Instruments
Amazon.com: Neutrik SCNAC-MPX Sealing Cover for powerCON True 1 Male Chassis Connector: Electronics
Amazon.com: Panel Mount Housing for Two Anderson Powerpole Connectors with a Weather Resistant Cover: Home Audio & Theater
Amazon.com: USMEI Dual QC3.0 USB Charger Socket, 36W Waterproof Quick Charge 3.0 Power Outlet Adapter for 12V/24V Car Boat Marine Motorcycle ATV RV Campers Tractors Truck Golf-Cart etc: Cell Phones & Accessories
Amazon.com: 5 Pack - EPAuto 30/40 AMP Relay Harness Spdt 12V Bosch Style: Automotive

Some wire, assortment of butt connectors and other terminals, shrink wrap, electrical tape (not a fan but might need it)....

Do mind the wire gauge depending on amp draw (accessory to be connected to a particular port) ..... for example; I went 10AWG for the anderson power pole (charge & Inverter - same port) and everything else I have a combination of 12/14AWG.... I also have a 12v (cigarette style) port connected directly to the battery (fused) for running my portable water pump (when needed).

I used some birchwood for the base that I cut to size and rounded the corners, all connected with 5 bolts/nuts...

I also have this 180w foldable that I use with my Taxa Cricket and an LFP 100AH .... same solar charge controller.

Notice how I chose Neutrik PowerCON connectors to plug in the solar panel (s) ... made them all the same, they lock, rated for high AMPS and ..... it's unique. Stole the idea from a solar guy in youtube.

Happy building.

Let me know if you have any other questions...

 

[Sac Cerevisiae]

Or you can do what I did and build yourself a portable DC/Solar Powered system, I personally do not (or extremely rarely) need AC power and if I do I keep a 1000w inverter handy on it's own case I can connect via Anderson Power Pole..

I have powered my ARB 82qt for days with this setup (with solar panel connected during the day), I have a Rockpals 100w solar foldable solar panel I bought on Amazon and works like a CHAMP!!! not to mention if I can use it to charge 3 iPads, 4 iphones for days before it even requires charging (not running the fridge at the same time off course).

You could also install a Renogy DC to DC charger on your car and charge it while simultaneously powering your fridge with it.

Bonus, you can check the status of your system via BlueTooth.

Shoe for reference (I wear 13)

And did I mention this whole setup can be probably had for under a grand <$1k (minus the dc to dc charger)
.
.

This is exactly what I'm hoping to do.

 

[TeCKis300]

Thank you ......


Can you detail the parts? it looks like:

- 40ah lithium phosphate battery
- victron mppt controller
- Apache case (Harbor Freight)
- rockpals 100w solar panel
- fusebox
- lcd panel - DONT BUY this one .... POS ..... I am switching to a "new one"

Some other parts:

Amazon.com: API-ELE [3 year warranty] 16mm Latching Push Button Switch 12V On Off Stainless Steel with LED Angel Eye Head for 0.63" Mounting Hole with Wire Socket Plug Self-locking(Red): Automotive
Amazon product ASIN B0772D9915Amazon.com: Neutrik NAC3FCA AC PowerCon CBL End-in, Blue: Home Audio & Theater
Amazon.com: Fastronix 40A 12V Type 1 Automatic Reset Circuit Breaker with Cover: Automotive
Amazon.com: Neutrik NAC3MPA-1 powerCON Chassis Connector - Blue: Musical Instruments
Amazon.com: Neutrik SCNAC-MPX Sealing Cover for powerCON True 1 Male Chassis Connector: Electronics
Amazon.com: Panel Mount Housing for Two Anderson Powerpole Connectors with a Weather Resistant Cover: Home Audio & Theater
Amazon.com: USMEI Dual QC3.0 USB Charger Socket, 36W Waterproof Quick Charge 3.0 Power Outlet Adapter for 12V/24V Car Boat Marine Motorcycle ATV RV Campers Tractors Truck Golf-Cart etc: Cell Phones & Accessories
Amazon.com: 5 Pack - EPAuto 30/40 AMP Relay Harness Spdt 12V Bosch Style: Automotive

Some wire, assortment of butt connectors and other terminals, shrink wrap, electrical tape (not a fan but might need it)....

Do mind the wire gauge depending on amp draw (accessory to be connected to a particular port) ..... for example; I went 10AWG for the anderson power pole (charge & Inverter - same port) and everything else I have a combination of 12/14AWG.... I also have a 12v (cigarette style) port connected directly to the battery (fused) for running my portable water pump (when needed).

I used some birchwood for the base that I cut to size and rounded the corners, all connected with 5 bolts/nuts...

I also have this 180w foldable that I use with my Taxa Cricket and an LFP 100AH .... same solar charge controller.

Notice how I chose Neutrik PowerCON connectors to plug in the solar panel (s) ... made them all the same, they lock, rated for high AMPS and ..... it's unique. Stole the idea from a solar guy in youtube.

Happy building.

Let me know if you have any other questions...

Great setup you got there. A lot of those same parts including the 40ah lithium phosphate battery and charger could be hard installed on the cruiser. Like you, I like the portability as I want it to support multiple uses including my car, trailer, and tent.

Good choice on the Rockpals 100W portable panel. I have the same one and it is fantastic in build, portability, and flexibility. I really like that it doesn't even require a battery with its onboard high power USB charging outputs to charge devices directly...and fast (5-8amps). The flexibility is killer as I can plug it into my travel trailer to augment the 400W on the roof, especially when its shaded. Or charge my GZ 1000 for car camping. Or as mentioned, directly charge my cell phone, laptop, portable battery pack, jump starter, whatever that has a battery.

 

[tirewater]

Hmm, I guess I did something similar, but less ingenuity. Obviously the MPPT solar charger linked above will be more efficient than whatever charger is in the Suaoki.

Suaoki 400wh Power Station:

Amazon product ASIN B01M260BAN
Suaoki 60w solar panels:

Amazon product ASIN B018TY8ZYQ
Really the goal was portability. At our stage in life, we can't make the vehicle be the base camp.

 

[Bunga]

Not sure. Just saying that heat management can be an issue. (Edited)

Another strategy used by various OEMs, especially German brands that install AGM stock, have a bay off the engine compartment that is a divided compartment. Perhaps one could install the battery in the bay and create a heat shield around the battery?

Heat management is a very real issue for agm. That is why so many people have a varied life for them in lead acid replacement. I run the dual up front, but I wrapped the sides of the agm with mylar-faced insulation, top open for the venting. But as you state, the Audi/BMWs have had the agm in the passenger compartment for MANY, years with no problem. My x5 had it in the back hatch area with very limited venting, and my Audi under the seat.

 

[DirtNap]

Looks like a great project. You should take the info above and make a new thread so it is standalone, and easier to discover, maybe even a sticky.

Thank you ......
<snip>
Let me know if you have any other questions...

 

[tbisaacs]

REI is putting their Yeti line on sale for Labor Day. 20% off Aug 23-Sep 2:

 

[drftsub]

Just as a note as I didn't see this discussed (or missed it).

I was able to trial the Dometic battery ( PLB40 ) this last weekend as my dual battery setup is fixed to my Tacoma and I haven't outfitted the cruiser with that yet.

I ran a Dometic CFX40 fridge with this, longest run was about 22 hours without a charge from the rig.

• The ambient during the day was ~95 , low was ~50
• The fridge was running at 30 deg. F the whole time with a mix of drinks and food items.
• I checked the charge level before firing up to go run trails and there was still 29% battery left, not too bad.

It charged up quick via the 12v on the back of the center console as well and is absolutely modular. If I understand correctly you can direct wire solar to it as well.

That said my plan is for a 100 ah Battle Born setup, but this was a great modular solution that can move in seconds.

 

[tbisaacs]

Just as a note as I didn't see this discussed (or missed it).

I was able to trial the Dometic battery ( PLB40 ) this last weekend as my dual battery setup is fixed to my Tacoma and I haven't outfitted the cruiser with that yet.

I ran a Dometic CFX40 fridge with this, longest run was about 22 hours without a charge from the rig.

• The ambient during the day was ~95 , low was ~50
• The fridge was running at 30 deg. F the whole time with a mix of drinks and food items.
• I checked the charge level before firing up to go run trails and there was still 29% battery left, not too bad.

It charged up quick via the 12v on the back of the center console as well and is absolutely modular. If I understand correctly you can direct wire solar to it as well.

That said my plan is for a 100 ah Battle Born setup, but this was a great modular solution that can move in seconds.

$850 bucks for that little guy. YIKES.

 

[Mogwai]

$850 bucks for that little guy. YIKES.

In comparison, you'd need to do some work but 3.5kWh of battery + bms. 48 volt Nissan Leaf Lithium ion Mini Power Pack Battery 3.5 kwh 66ah G2 No built in inverter, charge ports, etc... but... power for days.

 

[eatSleepWoof]

In comparison, you'd need to do some work but 3.5kWh of battery + bms. 48 volt Nissan Leaf Lithium ion Mini Power Pack Battery 3.5 kwh 66ah G2 No built in inverter, charge ports, etc... but... power for days.

66ah @ 48v would make it 264ah @ 12v, right? That's a crazy amount of fridge run time.

 

[Mogwai]

I think that's 66ah per module @ 7.5V = 495Wh x 7 modules. Total package ~3500Wh. 48V vs 12V, 12V operates at 4x total Amps under the same respective load, but total power between the two should be the same. At least that's how I understand it.

The perfect system is prob a 24V arrangement w/ 8 of those modules, but I can't find a BMS that will that will take 2 parallel sets of 4 modules each in series. If anyone knows how to solve for this let me know!

 

[drftsub]

$850 bucks for that little guy. YIKES.

Can be had ~ 750 on avg . My buddy was able to score this one on an REI sale for 50% off so it was more realistic. That said, the reason I am going to build my setup on the 100ah Battle Born is I will spend not much more and have much more reserve power.