gavinwibrow
7th October 2013, 04:57 PM
I don't want a second battery under the engine hood, but I'm looking at other rear located removeable battery power options and recharging for my D2a. I've already worked out that the existing 12V power socket (cigarette lighter) to the back is of minimal (if any) use for charging big batteries whilst driving.
I also accept that there might be ocassions where a towed caravan or similar has batteries that would enjoy charging, but for the purposes of this exercise, it seems logical to me to initially assume that unit has its own charging system?
I've read through the Good Oil and the Verandah, plus a general search, and am now even more thoroughly confused, and I hope these numpty questions might help others who are electrically challenged, so here goes!
Option 1 is to run heavy duty cables to the back (cables are already in situ along the chassis in anticipation of a removeable rear winch connection) and make a T connection available into the rear cabin for a portable unit (think Ark or PortaPower etc) via a HD Anderson plug or similar.
Presumably this still need an isolator and/or fuse and/or Traxide 160 type support.
One backup advantage of this option is I understand providing alternative/ supportive power for the winch, whilst retaining enough spark in reserve (through the wonders of electronics) for primary battery engine restarting if necessary. Normally should not be an issue with engine running, but?
Or in a worst case scenario hopefully providing additional juice to help winch a stuffed vehicle out of immediate trouble.
Other options - now I'm getting out of my depth - do I need some form of battery smart charger? What other options are available, or do I just stick with option 1.
Cheers Gavin
I also accept that there might be ocassions where a towed caravan or similar has batteries that would enjoy charging, but for the purposes of this exercise, it seems logical to me to initially assume that unit has its own charging system?
I've read through the Good Oil and the Verandah, plus a general search, and am now even more thoroughly confused, and I hope these numpty questions might help others who are electrically challenged, so here goes!
Option 1 is to run heavy duty cables to the back (cables are already in situ along the chassis in anticipation of a removeable rear winch connection) and make a T connection available into the rear cabin for a portable unit (think Ark or PortaPower etc) via a HD Anderson plug or similar.
Presumably this still need an isolator and/or fuse and/or Traxide 160 type support.
One backup advantage of this option is I understand providing alternative/ supportive power for the winch, whilst retaining enough spark in reserve (through the wonders of electronics) for primary battery engine restarting if necessary. Normally should not be an issue with engine running, but?
Or in a worst case scenario hopefully providing additional juice to help winch a stuffed vehicle out of immediate trouble.
Other options - now I'm getting out of my depth - do I need some form of battery smart charger? What other options are available, or do I just stick with option 1.
Cheers Gavin