Dual Battery Setup

[Wolfe]

Ok guys, I need help, I've been thinking about a dual battery setup in my xj. But the cost of a propriety setup is expensive. Has any one done a setup using parts from jaycar or similar. I was thinking of mounting a gel type battery in a container in the cargo area. Any ideas?

[sbadman]

The Jaycar dual battery systems are diode based, which are unsuitable for later model regulator setups like the xj. I did get my cable and terminals from Jaycar though.

I use a Redarc isolator which can be had for <$100 off of Ebay.

[Wolfe]

Wiring diagram? Where did you put second Battery?

[SteveC]

+You can get an automated system like Projecta 100amp system, that supplies all the wiring and bits and pieces on Ebay. It will be about $150 if you look around. This system allows you to protect your wiring and allows you to connect two batteries with just a push of a button in case you flatten the main one.
You should be able to get a battery box and place that in the boot if you can't fit it under the bonnet. While mine in a WJ, I was able to get it under the boot but had to manufacture my own tray. works well.

[glend]

Wolfe I built a sealed battery box that sits in the left rear seat footwell (which for me was unused space, and there was simply no room in the KJ CRD engine bay). It is held there with cam lock straps attached to the rear and front seat frame mount. This still leaves the rear cargo area free for all the camping gear, fridge etc. The battery is wired to a distribution panel mounted on my cargo barrier and has a 12V power point there plus a battery meter to monitor the voltage. Initially (for the Desert Trip) it was a stand alone second battery system for powering the fridge in remote camps overnight where power was not available. It is recharged with my Cetex charger when power is available. It also drives my rack mounted camp light setup when needed (I use a 12V double adaptor off the distribution board point). The next step is to connect it up to a Redarc or Project isolator system, or a voltage sensing relay. On my boat I just use manual duel battery switches (1,2, both).

http://i555.photobucket.com/albums/jj454/glend1450/DSCN0665.jpg

http://i555.photobucket.com/albums/jj454/glend1450/DSCN0668.jpg

http://i555.photobucket.com/albums/jj454/glend1450/DSCN0663.jpg

[Steve F]

My second battery ios under the bonnet using a tray from Piranha, I also used the Redarc isolater and cabling from Jaycar. Easy to install and with it under the bonnet it's out of the way. If you want some pics let me know and I'll grab a couple over the weekend.

Cheers
Steve

[Wolfe]

My second battery ios under the bonnet using a tray from Piranha, I also used the Redarc isolater and cabling from Jaycar. Easy to install and with it under the bonnet it's out of the way. If you want some pics let me know and I'll grab a couple over the weekend.

Cheers
Steve

Yes Please

[sbadman]

Stuart, he's the post I made earlier this year when I installed my dual battery

http://www.sydneyjeepclub.com/showthread.php?1514-Scott-Badman-1995-XJ-Limited&p=16891&viewfull=1#post16891