Multiple batteries?

[LukeZero]

I have a battery isolator that I got for $1 at a garage sale. Looks like its brand new, probably stolen from one of the RV factories locally. Anyway, I've been thinking about installing it and using one battery designated for winching only, and the other battery for everything else. Does this make sense? I got the installation instructions from the manufacturer as well as a wiring diagram, so I can install it correctly if that's what I should do. Thanks, Luke


here's a picture of it if that helps.

 

[dv_fj40]

Luke,
I have my secondary battery setup as a backup only - with the ability to flip a switch and draw from both batteries if need be - for winching. We did trial runs last night and everything seem to work okay. See post: https://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.php?t=20149

Not sure if this will help you?

Joel

 

[Tboss]

You are better off to use a bus solenoid, the isolator will not hold up.

 

[LukeZero]

Won't hold up in what way? It says its rated for 250 amps. I guess when heavy winching, might pull more like 400 or 500 amps, but only for a minute or two. What do you mean by bus solenoid. Wiring diagram? Thanks, Luke

 

[Desertdave]

Isolator

I have used a lesser-rated isolator from that exact manufacturer for over 10 years in my 'Cruiser with no issues. I have used the solenoid setup in my other vehicles, also with no issue. I believe I would probably use an isolator in my rigs that need to function way off the beaten path, there seems to be less to fail.

Mine hasn't got the 4th small lug in the center, which I think is used only in certain applications. I have the output from the alternator going to the center lug, one lug feeds the main battery, and the second battery is fed through a 50 A circuit breaker off of the other end lug. I wired it as per the instructions that came with it.