Linking multiple batteries

[StealthEsUv]

Stock alternator can handle this? Should i run a positive from the stock battery, then to my new one. And the same with the ground? Or should i ground the new battery on the block? Thanks

 

[mawrazen]

Great question, I have been considering the same thing! Almost like using jumper cables. Get large wires, You might even consider a relay with a 12 volt switch to add the 2nd battery to the system.

Then an electric motor to each rear wheel and you'll have a hybrid!

Don't know if you should run a wire to each negative or just ground it to the body or frame. Hopefully some more knowledgeable folks can tell us!

I'm not crazy, Just A.D.D.!

I did do this to my van, it worked fine.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Did you consider using an isolator?

 

[StealthEsUv]

I read on a few forums that said to use nothing at all.

 

[Brandons]

I run dual batteries with an isolator.

A good idea might be to run a fuse at each battery just in case, with 4 gauge wire from each (depending on were you put the battery of course, mines at the back). Also run an extra ground from the main battery to the body if you don't run a ground wire to the other battery, like you do when running amplifiers in the back, you don't have to but i would recommend it.

The good thing about an isolator is that you can keep one battery disconnected easily, so lets say you leave something on and it drains the primary battery, you can flick a switch and turn on the 2nd battery. Also note youl want to run a lead from the "Run" wire from the key, through a diode preferably to the isolator to turn it on every time you run the truck. A diode will only let power go one way, so when you switch on the isolator it wont power up the run circuit. The wire you run to the isolator for the switch should come from the secondary batteries power, if you use an isolator.

Good luck!

 

[n0xdw]

I used an isolator and each battery grounds to the engine. If the start battery should get run down the other will still be charged. Now all i need to do is hook up a solenoid so i can push a button and it jumps it self

 

[Exploderpilot]

look this up on google, and you will find plenty of all in one kits that include the relays and wiring.....cheap...60 bucks tops. some even include provisions for a remote battery disconnect in case of accidents.

 

[budwich]

use an isolator. As indicated, it keeps your batteries separate. The main reason for this is that if one of your batteries has / gets internal problems (ie. weak / dead cells), without an isolator, the end result will be that it will take the other down with it even if everything is turned off since they will form a circuit unto themselves.... this is the main purpose of an isolator. Of course, the good "side affect" of an isolator (that was pointed out), is that you can then run or drain one with whatever "musical / lighting folly" you want and still have some power available to you from the other.