Dual Battery

[SnowMan]

Hello All,

I plan to install a second battery to run accessories. Who has already done this? Is there room under the hood to install a second battery? Pictures would be much appreciated.

I have researched dual battery setups and I am leaning toward option #1 "Dumb" Relay. Your thoughts are welcome.

1. "Dumb" Relay (a.k.a High Current Relay/Solenoid)
- connects the two batteries together (in parallel) when the car is running
- alternator charges both batteries as one
- both batteries should be of the same type and age
- the accessory battery can be used to jump the starter battery if the starter battery is low
- around $80

2. "Smart" Relay (a.k.a. Voltage Sensitive Relay)
- alternator charges accessory battery only when the starter battery is above 13.4V (or whatever level it is programmed for)
- not a good choice for cars built after 2006 when computer controlled alternators were introduced that vary the output current
- around $200

3. DC-DC Charger
- DC-DC unit draws power from the starter battery/alternator to charge the accessory battery
- some models will also charge the accessory battery from solar panels
- around $400

 

[eg1]

Hi, did you achieve the dual battery install?

 

[Scramschnits]

I'm also curious if you have done this as of yet. Thinking of doing this in tandem with my audio upgrade.

 

[xcelir8kia]

Ditto, done by anyone?