I am thinking of adding a second Group 41 battery under the rear seat.  The
simplest wiring arrangement would be used.  I would run two wires directly
to the starter (+ and -).  When camping for any extended time, the ground
could be disconnected from this battery to prevent it from running down.
The original battery, which is still under the passenger seat, with all the
stock wiring intact, would power the radio, lights, etc...   (I have no
interest in running the fridge off of the battery.)  The second battery
would be enclosed in a case and ventilated.  The relatively short distance
to the starter should improve cranking speed and would provide easy access
for jumping other vehicles.  Both batteries would be available for starting
purposes in this arrangement.   There would be no permanent modification to
the stock wiring, only a few holes to run the new wires to the starter.
The second battery is an exact match in age and brand to the first.  It's
coming out of my '89 Jetta diesel.  Both are about 4 years old.  I was
thinking about getting the cables out of a junk yard.  Maybe out of a big
old V-8?
Any suggestions?

                                                        Jay '85 Westy