Has anyone upgraded their alternator to run a second battery?

[Pierretx]

Has anyone ran a dual battery system, using the oem or upgraded alternator ? I know there are other options like self contained batteries etc but I'm very set on building this aux bat system with the/an alternator being the only charging source for it. Thanks in advance!

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[JohnnyBronco]

With the standard alternator output you should have no problem keep two batteries wired in parallel fully charged. Last vehicle I had with twin batteries was my 78 Chevy diesel pickup. Downfall with it was undersized cable running from battery to battery.

 

[JohnnyBronco]

BTW many vehicles put the main or only battery in the trunk.

 

[da_jokker]

Yeah the issue isn't the generator, it's finding a place to put the second battery.

 

[cr117]

American Adventure Labs has a kit for the rear cargo storage area.

 

[tfrazier]

The other potential issue you might have is with the IBS (intelligent battery sensor), which monitors your batteries state of charge, health and function. Not sure if adding a second battery will impact this. Just putting it out there.

 

[Bellime]

Just wish there was a better place for the second anchor.

 

[BroncoAZ]

The other potential issue you might have is with the IBS (intelligent battery sensor), which monitors your batteries state of charge, health and function. Not sure if adding a second battery will impact this. Just putting it out there.

The IBS sensor can be overcome by connecting the wires to the truck side of the sensor. The on demand charging poses a bigger problem, the alternator is variable output and doesn’t account for a the second battery. The solution is a DC to DC charger for the second battery. I picked up a 20 amp Renogy charger on prime day for $91. I think the 20 amp will be fine as I only plan on running the ARB fridge off a small second battery. The larger 40 amp and 60 amp chargers require a dedicated 4 gauge wire if mounted in the back. I’m planning on a single 4 gauge wire for the charger and stereo amps. I’m not sure what or where I’ll be doing with the spare battery(ies).

 

[Who iz]

Is it H2O proof down there?

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Like...cr117 posted:

American Adventure Labs has a kit for the rear cargo storage area.

Their system has worked great for me well over 15 months now. Check out their website.

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