dual battery set up

I am in the process of looking for the best, most efficient, and inexpensive to maintain way to install dual batteries. What is the best way to isolate it a solenoid or diode isolator? What are the pro/cons of each?

 

Here is a link to a great thread that will answer most, if not all of your questions about doing a dual batt setup. If you don't find what you need there, post your question in that thread. I lot of very knowledgeable guys in there.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...ets-see-them-multiple-batterys-thread.295653/

 

Why on earth do you need 2 batteries?

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-electrical-system-upgrade.311091/

Here is a good multi option for dual setups, great prices too! Bama is definitely a good guy to answer any questions you have aswell! There is a bit of info you might find useful in there too.

 

Youd be suprised how useful a dual battery setup can be and for several different purposes...

 

It is mostly an expo rig thing but I like to be able to run my fridge all the time when the truck is not. I have all the camp lights and even my amps wired to the house battery too so I do not have to worry if the truck will start in the morning. My setup isolates the 2 batteries when the truck isn't running. Also, if the main battery dies for some reason when I'm in BFE or anywhere for that matter, this dual battery system will also allow me to self-jumpstart the truck from the house battery with a switch in the cab.

 

A diode isolator is easier to install (no switch needed) and has no moving parts, but it's pricier ($50+) and it robs about half a volt. This type isolator also gets very hot and requires it be installed in a well ventilated area.
A solenoid isolator is more affordable but has moving parts and will wear out in time (but not for a long time). It also requires a switch to engage, unless you get a pricer 'smart' isolator model. This type isolator consumes some power to stay engaged.

I'm using a Cole Hersee (24213, $35) 200 amp solenoid isolator controlled with a toggle switch. It's a full manual setup but the switch can be wired to an ignition-on power source in case you forget to turn it off.