What is the best dual Battery Kit for a 2011 Denfender 90

[Defender2011]

Gday,

I am looking for a dual battery system for a new Defender 90, it will need to run a fridge, air comp, shower etc and also have the option to start the car in the event the main battery dies... there are so many systems out there I am just looking for direction on which unit to go for.

Also where and how do I fit the second battery?

Thanks - Jay

[Hoges]

First work out your " amp hour" requirements. From your description, perhaps you need 2 auxiliary batteries. A proper deep cycle and a hybrid start/deep cycle. I got the very generous AULRO discount from Supercharge when I bought 2 of the latter type i.e. their 105AH Allrounder batteries.

Once you have decided on the batteries, then the next bit is working out how to charge them on the run. Drivesafe on this forum has something for everyone with his Traxide range of kit for this very purpose...

[Nera Donna]

Totally agree with Hoges, work out your power requirements prior to going any further.
The second battery goes under the passage side seat. It’s a tight squeeze. Search this forum and you’ll see dozens of treads and pictures on this subject.
As far as ‘what’ unit to buy??? That’s entirely up to you and how big your budget is? I can only comment on what I use, I use ‘Piranha 180’ duel battery system control that I had in my previous vehicle. No complains. I also use a ‘Piranha’ duel battery tray, there are cheaper battery retaining systems on the market.
I also like the spec’s on the new top of the range ‘Redarc’ system. But seeing as I don’t have one I cant comment on their performance.
Good luck, do search for treads there is a wealth of knowledge in there.
Cheers
Craig

[Trout]

Suggest you check the piranha Dual bat tray carefully if you go with that one as the original battery on my 90 did not fit back in with out modifying the tray substantially.

[jc109]

Suggest you check the piranha Dual bat tray carefully if you go with that one as the original battery on my 90 did not fit back in with out modifying the tray substantially.

Piranha are aware of this issue. The standard battery fitted by LR is slightly longer now than it was a year or two back, and as a result Piranha's tray has had to be changed. I bought one recently but checked before I drove off. Too short. Went back in and a quick phone call later had a new tray on its way to the store from Piranha. Same price. Two week wait as I'm on the wrong side of the country. They will no doubt become more common as word gets around.

[newhue]

If you are not particularly electrically minded remember to KISS the project.

I have a Rotronics system I bought secondhand of a mate. It works well but i would struggle to explain all it's features or fault find it. I fitted a Deeka sea mate 105A/h under the pass seat. Turned the cranker to face front/rear and made a new floor and battery holding plate for the cavity. It all fits but is pretty snugg. Fitted the charging system brains into the Mulgo Xbox which also freed up space under the drivers seat. Furthermore it raised those electricals up 6" or so, and hopefully more water resistant with some silicone sealing around the place.