Dual Battery Setups! Let's see them! Multiple Batteries Thread!

weldo · Feb 17, 2015

MJonAgs32 said: ↑

PM NYCO. His write up of that system is HERE
Click to expand...

Didn't see anything about linking in that article. Good install and information though, thanks!

Here is a diagram of the Piranha box, very simple.

Maybe this system is incapable of being linked. Seems like IBS and other similar systems use the microprocessor to control manual linking, but the Piranha does not offer this feature.

weldo · Feb 17, 2015

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

If you're wanting a system that'll link, check out the 3 that skygear highlighted

skygear said: ↑

Now for the monitoring systems. I'll go in order of made of vehicles to what I prefer. Listing some quick pro's and con's.

National Luna -> http://www.nationalluna.com/intelsol.htm

These suckers are BIG

Pro-
1. Audible TOne
2. dual monitor
3. paddle is a switch also (con too)
4. used by overlanders/offroaders all over the world
5. This one is huge, they make a MONITORING DONGLE that does not have to be plugged into their proprietary Intelligent solenoid.
6. they apparently make a recessed Dongle now too!

Con

1. Dongles are HUGE and do not really go anywhere in our vehicles.

2. Solenoid system is actually a HYBRID and not really a 'smart' solenoid.

3. Huge con for me, not really a sealed system. Whole thing could have been enclosed.
4. Price - $395 - WOW!
5. Weire wiring and solenoid setup. Whats up with all the large nodules on the solenoid ?
6. Looks like someone garbled a few components together, not really a polished finished product.

IBS---

Pro -

1. Designed off road use
2. Smaller setup than the National Luna (con too)
3. easy install
4. Audible tone
5. dual visual gauges for the battery
6. dongle is also a switch

Cons

1. Size, 200amp relay
2. not waterproof/ sealed
3. plastic relay -> Mounting and heat issues hypothetically.

4. Price - At almost 500 with options, Most expensive option by far http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2074
5. wiring is all over the place

Blue Sea ML-ACR

Pro

1. Sealed
2. Full sized switch with built in blinking LEDs for battery states
3. PRICE $261.63
4. Easy to connect Leads for battery 1 and 2
5. easy harness with options of a tinned leads or deutsch connector
6. Manual shutoff/ isolation of batteries at the relay itself.
7. Small form factor
8. From start to finish, a truly thought out and well designed product. It is actually a BUSSMANN/ Blue Sea product.

CONS

1. No tone
2. No graphical interface (although some have used small monitors that are still SMALLER than the dongles above - I am working with a company to make the Blue sea switch with the integrated monitor function)

What I am trying to get made at a reasonable cost.

Click to expand...

weldo · Feb 17, 2015

I haven't seen the blue sea one before, I'll do some more research on that. The more I ponder this subject I wonder...

I don't doubt for a second the usefulness of a dual battery system, but is linking the two really necessary? Plenty of guys winch with just one battery, right? And as far as self jumping, if your starting battery ever died, couldn't you just pop the hood and hook up jumper cables between the batteries? Or might that harm the system?

Thanks for your patience.

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

weldo said: ↑

I haven't seen the blue sea one before, I'll do some more research on that. The more I ponder this subject I wonder...

I don't doubt for a second the usefulness of a dual battery system, but is linking the two really necessary? Plenty of guys winch with just one battery, right? And as far as self jumping, if your starting battery ever died, couldn't you just pop the hood and hook up jumper cables between the batteries? Or might that harm the system?

Thanks for your patience.
Click to expand...

I have the Blue Sea unit - although it isn't installed quite yet. I've used my winch several times with just my one battery, but it's better to have just in case. Not sure about jumper cables, but I think I remember someone saying it wouldn't be a problem.

weldo · Feb 17, 2015

As long as the alternator is putting out current, that is, engine idling or even idled up, while you were winching, would it matter if you had 1 or 2 batteries?

BamaToy1997 · Feb 17, 2015

weldo said: ↑

I haven't seen the blue sea one before, I'll do some more research on that. The more I ponder this subject I wonder...

I don't doubt for a second the usefulness of a dual battery system, but is linking the two really necessary? Plenty of guys winch with just one battery, right? And as far as self jumping, if your starting battery ever died, couldn't you just pop the hood and hook up jumper cables between the batteries? Or might that harm the system?

Thanks for your patience.
Click to expand...

Yes, you could technically just open the hood and use jumper cables. But one of the things that my customers have liked about my system is that you simply flip a switch and start your truck. No need to even open your door, much less get out and open your hood!

skygear · Feb 17, 2015

weldo said: ↑

I haven't seen the blue sea one before, I'll do some more research on that. The more I ponder this subject I wonder...

I don't doubt for a second the usefulness of a dual battery system, but is linking the two really necessary? Plenty of guys winch with just one battery, right? And as far as self jumping, if your starting battery ever died, couldn't you just pop the hood and hook up jumper cables between the batteries? Or might that harm the system?

Thanks for your patience.
Click to expand...

MJonAgs32 said: ↑

I have the Blue Sea unit - although it isn't installed quite yet. I've used my winch several times with just my one battery, but it's better to have just in case. Not sure about jumper cables, but I think I remember someone saying it wouldn't be a problem.
Click to expand...

The blue sea ML-ACR has a switch for that purpose of Joined (jumped)/ OFF/ Auto - for that purpose also. I believe all the dual battery kits currently have very similar setups minus the blue sea doesn't have a gauge to visually tell the voltage. It does have the LEDS that blink with various states of each battery though.

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

skygear said: ↑

The blue sea ML-ACR has a switch for that purpose of Joined (jumped)/ OFF/ Auto - for that purpose also. I believe all the dual battery kits currently have very similar setups minus the blue sea doesn't have a gauge to visually tell the voltage. It does have the LEDS that blink with various states of each battery though.
Click to expand...

I currently have this gauge on my a-pilar

Thinking of changing it to either of these:

BamaToy1997 · Feb 17, 2015

MJonAgs32 said: ↑

I currently have this gauge on my a-pilar

Thinking of changing it to either of these:

Click to expand...

I like those. Where did you find them?

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

BamaToy1997 said: ↑

I like those. Where did you find them?
Click to expand...

The SAAS is from
http://www.autopartshop.com.au/saas-52mm-digital-dual-volt-gauge.html

The VDO is from
http://www.gauge-shop.com.au/catalo...0-cockpit-digital/1395-dual-voltmeter-digital

Ended up getting the SAAS one. Came to $58 USD shipped

skygear · Feb 17, 2015

Check this out.

http://projecta.com.au/LatestNews1/ProjectaIncreasesEfficiencyandEase-of-UsewithSecondGenerati.aspx
http://projecta.com.au/site/Default...agement/DBM100 Instruction Manual_165x130.pdf

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ogUZxWMtcM

Projecta has upgraded its Dual Battery Volt Meter (P/No. DBM100) with an enhanced second generation model offering. Features include reduced power consumption, an audible warning alarm, ‘ignition off’ operation and suitable for 12 and 24 volt systems.

The Projecta dual battery volt meter provides information about the amount of charge left in main and auxiliary batteries, with the upgraded model now supporting both 12 and 24 volt systems with a wide 0-36 volt meter range.

Saving valuable power for other important electronic devices fitted to the vehicle, such as fridges or communication devices, the new efficient second generation volt meter draws less than half the power of the first generation model – just 16mA when the ignition is on and a mere 6mA when the ignition is off.

The unit boasts a compact and unobtrusive design and has improved functionality including an adjustable warning alarm which sounds even when the vehicles ignition is off, alerting the user of low or high voltage levels. A handy snooze function has also been incorporated into the unit.

The unit’s display can also be operated to check voltage readings while the vehicle’s ignition is off, allowing the user to monitor power systems quickly and conveniently at any time without draining the vehicle’s battery.

As per the previous model, the brightness of the unit’s LCD display is adjustable and automatically dims when the vehicle’s headlights are in use, allowing the unit to be an ‘at glance’ tool rather than a distraction when fitted to the vehicle’s dashboard.

The display features large clear blue digits, which are easy on the eyes at night and can be easily seen from any angle during the day.

In addition, the unit’s simple and intuitive one-handed operation scroll switch promotes ease of use, similar to its predecessor.

The dual battery volt meter is supplied with durable double sided tape, so it is easily and securely affixed to a vehicle’s dashboard without the need to drill holes. A 1.5 metre pre-wired harness is also supplied with the unit.

Projecta’s DBM100 12/24 dual battery volt meters are available in blister packs from leading automotive, transport and four wheel drive outlets throughout Australia for a RRP of $99.
Click to expand...

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

It's neat. But where would you mount it?

Idaholandho · Feb 17, 2015

weldo said: ↑

As long as the alternator is putting out current, that is, engine idling or even idled up, while you were winching, would it matter if you had 1 or 2 batteries?
Click to expand...

I am by far no match for the likes on this thread but understand that my being able to manually link my batteries with the IBS allows me to split the battery load therefore reducing the alternator workload.
Sky - feel free to correct me if I am mistaken.

skygear · Feb 17, 2015

I know. I contacted them. Size of these modules is the kill factor for me too. I want to see if I can get in touch with the designer and see if it can be slimmed down at all. Could go below the radio in 2 of the blank switch spots. Or scooted over a bit to only cover 1 and crowd the 12v outlet. I need to mock one up and see where it fits into things in the truck.

It has everything a modern monitor should though. Digital Screen. Audible tone, and user interface that is customizable. We can build cellphones that are small but can't make a switch size battery monitor/? There has to be a manufacturer willing to do this project.

MJonaGS32 · Feb 17, 2015

I ended up just getting the SAAS unit. I'll have to take out my current volt gauge anyway, and it'll look nice in my a-pilar gauge pod

skygear · Feb 18, 2015

http://www.baintech.com.au/caravan/victron-bmv702-battery-monitor

BamaToy1997 · Feb 18, 2015

They are certainly getting better and better on monitor systems for sure compared to a year ago.

skygear · Feb 18, 2015

I agree. having that shunt with the amp meter is nice. Like that you can add your CCA / battery specs to these and get it rocking. Still want one that is the size of switch though.

manethon · Feb 18, 2015

i love the SAAS ones for the Apillar

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