Dual Battery Addition

[CORY SPURLOCK]

I Am Interested In Adding Exterior Lighting To Our Van Ground Effects And Such I Want To Adda Dual Battery. I Have Been Asking Question About It But I Have Been Getting Mixed Opinions

My Question Is What Is The Best Method To Adding A Dual Battery To The Vehicle Without Touching The Existing Wiring And Voiding The Full Warranty

[GTP Dad]

First of all I really don't think adding a new battery would void the warranty. If you install a second battery you may want to purchase a battery isolator to insure that you get proper voltage to both batteries. This will also allow you to charge both equally. You can purchase them from several parts dealers but JC Whitney is the easiest place to find them. Your only problem may be finding a good place to put the battery. Make sure that if you have to put the battery into the passenger compartment that you purchase a proper battery box with a vent to vent the gases to the outside.

[CORY SPURLOCK]

i have a 160 amp alternator i havent been able to find a isolator to fit the amps for the alternator. i have plenty of room in the rear of the van underneath so venting the wouldnt be a problem. do you know of a isolator that will accomadate. is hooking up a mess or is it fairly easy

[GTP Dad]

This web sit should be able to help you with the isolator. http://www.hellroaring.com/bic75150.php

They are not hard to install although they look like they are. Just follow the directions. As for you cables you will want to use a good heavy duty welding cable for best results since you are putting the battery in the back. Good luck.

[mcgowen980]

A second battery is not needed to opperate additional lights or stereo equipment or any other electronics unless you plan to use them with the vehicle in the off position. When the vehicle is running the battery should not be drainned at all. Your alternator should be able to handle the voltage consumption on it's own, if not, get a bigger alternator. Furthermore, if you plan on opperating these or other electronic components with the vehicle off, be sure that if run your second battery dead, that it does not drain your vehicle's starting battery. I hope I was of some assistance.