Hi Bill,
Yes!--two group 41 batteries from Wallmart *will certainly work.  In fact,
that's just the set-up I've had in my '85 for two years.  When traveling, my
auxiliary batt gets a daily workout & I've always had all the power I need;
but then, I don't travel with a fridge--preferring a cooler instead.  So
perhaps the fridge is a factor...
Cheers,
Phaedra

--Peace On Earth!--

----- Original Message -----
From: Bill Kasper <dragonlist@IPMTS.UCSC.EDU>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2001 3:28 PM
Subject: Re: Optima deep cycle batt. as starting battery?

> i am ignerent when it comes to batteries (among other things electrical,
> and beyond).  what is the typical, stock battery's "group" for the
> vanagon?  if i go to walmart and buy two group 41 batteries to run
> household and the van, will that work?  what are the advantages of group
> 41 over any other group?
>
> inquiring minds want to know.
>
> thanks.
> bill
> '87 syncro westfalia
>
>
>
> On Thursday, November 15, 2001, at 01:58 , mark drillock wrote:
>
> If cost is a factor just get Walmart's $40 standard group 41 battery and
> put it in the other battery compartment under the driver's seat. You can
> buy a battery switch or a heavy duty relay for about $20. Add another
> $20 for wire and connectors and you can do the whole thing for under
> $100. If you like, put the new battery in the main battery position and
> use your old one for the aux battery. I use this approach and cycle in a
> new main battery every 2 years and move the old one to the aux position.
> This way I always have a fairly new main battery for starting.
>
> Mark
>