I need to add a 2nd batt. to my system, How do I wire it?!?!?!?

 

Delete your other post. Then post here what kind of battery you are using, what the purpose is, what type of isolation are you using(ie. high current isolator OR high current relay switch)

Do yo intend to crank the car with the second battery?

 

I have an Interstate Megatron battery. I just want to run my system off of that battery. Is there any way to do that?

 

I beleive that is a Lead Acid battery in which case it is not possible as lead acid batteries release toxic chemicals which will cause long term damage to your body if they are allowed to collect in a closed space such as the trunk compartment. You must use a dry or Gel cell battery which has no liquid in order to safely install it in the trunk.


Installing a lead acid battery would require some type of ventilation system which would really be a pain in the ass. Cosco has Optima batteries for $120.

 

^^Agreed^^

Also, to install one of those I believe he would need an isolator or stinger high current relay. From my research, I'd go with the relay since it seems that you can lose up to 2 amps with an isolator.

Anyways, I was tempted to go the extra battery route, but decided with all the extra wiring, hassle, and extra space it was going to take, I've decided to go with a 3 farad cap instead.

 

Yeh the isolator wont let high current flow, but the only current that should be flowing to the rear is a maitenence charge for the battery in which case 2 amps wont make that much of a difference.

 

Why are you trying to add a second battery? Have you upgraded your alternator? If not, adding a second battery will make your alternator work twice as hard and could do more damage to you electrical system

 

A second battery alone will not stress the alternator, the additional load will. even stock alts are usually working at 70% capacity during normal operation.

 

I know, but most people think adding a second battery alone will fix everything.

 

Yea, and those 'most' people don't know what their doing with car audio, let alone electronics. Upgrading the alt wouldn't be needed if adding a second battery using an isolater / relay. Each of those would 'switch' the top off charging to the other battery periodically. One thing that I was informed about a isolator is that it drops 2 volts (lol, not 2 amps), so at 14.4, you're back @ 12.4ish and its barely charging especially if its running your audio system at the same. Relay switch I believe doesn't have that issue. All in all, he's better off with a good cap.