Replacing stock battery for agm group 31 advice needed

I was thinking to replace my stock battery with a group31 deep cycle battery so that I can power my fridge plus other electrics on camping trips with the engine off. What else do I need for this replacement? Is a new alternator required and do I need to update the tacoma computers? Finally, is this an easy install for anyone or is it better to take to a tech?

 

Two things.

Switching to a heavier battery has been known to break the battery mount, even with reinforcing. You are going from a stock 44 pound battery to a 70 pound battery, a 60% increase in weight.


Keep in mind that you are shortening the life span of the battery (meaning you'll need to replace more often). A true deep cycle won't have the cranking amps to start the motor (or it will, but just barely) and a dual-purpose/marine battery will, but the CCA will still be less than a "starter" battery. However, as a battery ages, it's CCA decreases. If your rating is lower than stock brand new , it doesn't take as long before you drop below the threshold to start the motor.


I've always been of the school to carry portable power to run the camping accessories and keep it both simple and separate from the truck. But if that's not your flavor, cool. Those two problems above are your obstacles. You shouldn't have any issues with alternator or electrical systems. AGM carries a similar voltage/charging profile as a flooded cell, so it won't confuse the truck.

Edit: oh, and PS: It's a little more difficult to jump start a truck when it's hooked to a dead deep cycle. It takes a while before that big battery stops sucking juice like a bullemic vampire.

 

Excellent information^^^^^^^^^!!!!!!!!!!

 

You would be better off making something like this: or they sell them ready made for $$
https://davidmac.pro/posts/2021-12-20-portable-battery-box/

Good Luck.

 

Thanks for this. I have very limited knowledge so super useful. My other option is a 750whr battery bank which might be a better option for me after all