Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

[Beezerchris]

This might be more than anyone can reasonably explain online, but I'd like to add a second battery so listening to tunes and running accessory lighting. (without risking rundown on the main battery)

Are people doing this with a stand alone unit that has separate lines for plugins - and you simply trickle charge after each use - or can you wire it in so that it gets recharged during run time?

Any guidance or links appreciated. I have very little experience with marine batteries but have rewired lots of cars.

Thanks,

Chris

 

[fshngho]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

Right here at IBoats

http://www.iboats.com/Charge-on-the...2736425--**********.869998740--view_id.341868

All you need!

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

Most things you need to know can be found here:
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=288430

Buy a Perko switch, it will alow you to change between the starting and "house" battery with or without the motor running.

The starting battery is #1 and the house battery is #2. Keep the switch on #2 for the overnight and have the comfort of knowing the starting battery is ready to do its thing in the morning.

Others will have a lot of good information for you as well.

Happy boating!

 

[Starman8]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

Another link. I used the old isolator to have the ALT charge both batteries. The newer way is using a VSR. Both work, and suggest also a on-board charger.

http://easyacdc.com/?cat=37

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

Another link. I used the old isolator to have the ALT charge both batteries. The newer way is using a VSR. Both work, and suggest also a on-board charger.

http://easyacdc.com/?cat=37

GREAT INFO! I knew "others" would have good input on this

I always wondered if I was leaving the starting battery on long enough to charge it before shifting to the house battery to charge... this takes all the guess work out of the equation.

I'm going to guess there will be some comments about the poorer battery limiting the charging of both batteries. Then, the discussion on which battery set is best... it's a long debate not for this thread, I hope

 

[Beezerchris]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

Thanks everyone. A simple and elegant solution. You guys rock.

 

[Pugetsound]

Re: Second battery for radio and overnight lighting

I always carry a booster battery in my vehicles and Boats. You never know when you need one, or someone else does. I have the fairly inexpensive Sears booster. If you run every thing doun or to low for the battery to run things ?? There you go. Remember never try to start a O/B with a very low Battery as it will melt the armature on the starter. same on a car or Stern drive Boats . Just my advise for the day LOL Puget