Dual Battery - 12v

[Kenny]

Does anyone have a wiring diagram/tips on fitting two batteries. Finding that the main one goes flat very quickly with the winch. Basically want to split the charge, be able to isolate one and use the second one for powering the winch without draining the main one.

Cheers

Damian

[nzrover]

Best option is to use a charge spliting diode to keep the batteries seperate, otherwise....

Cheap, not very good option - Place a relay (at least 60 amps with 60 amp wiring) between the 2 +ve terminals and set it up to close it's contacts when it sees ignition signal.  

Better Option - a voltage sensitive relay (again at lest 60amp relay and wiring) that closes to allow the 2nd battery to charge when the first one is charged.

[diesel_boy]

OR you can do it the way  i use a split charge from a  caravan scocket the kit is easly avilable from  car accessory shops  halfords ect ect or your local one

[muddyweb]

There is some useful information towards the end of this thread :

http://forums.mud-club.com/viewtopic.php?p=18245&highlight=#18245


You need to be careful when using a split charge system for a winch-equipped vehicle.

[Ollie]

OR you can do it the way  i use a split charge from a  caravan scocket the kit is easly avilable from  car accessory shops  halfords ect ect or your local one

I want one of these :D What's the best second battery to buy. I'm only using it for leisure, ie, fridge and lights. I hear that if not wired correctly, the engine, when starting, can draw too much current from the second battery, thus destroying it! How can I avoid this, what are the other pit falls?

[diesel_boy]

f you go to halfords thay will sell you a kit for about £30