Tom-
There are several ways to do this, but the simplest, and perhaps most
effective for the average situation is to leave a "standard" battery in the
normal position, and install a deep-cycle battery in the other box under the
driver's seat. Install a diode "isolator" between the alternator, and this
second battery. This permits both batteries to charge when the car is
running, but current draw from only the auxiliary battery when the engine is
shut off. Wire all aux. devices ( inverter, TV set etc. ) off the aux.
battery. The idea here is to insure that you always have the ability to
start the engine, even if you fall asleep with the TV on, and deplete the
aux. battery overnight.
Chuck O
-----Original Message-----
From: Thomas Keefer <tkeefer@SAN.RR.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Friday, September 27, 2002 10:48 AM

>Hey All..
>The posting about dual batteries has re-ignited my interest to hook a
second
>up in my 7pass 88. What is the easiest/cleanest way to be able to run all
>the accesories off of the main battery. Is it easiest to just remove the
>regular battery and replace it with a deep cycle and then put the regular
>battery as your aux  then isolate the regular battery when in camp?? Any
>reccomendation on dual battery set-ups aftermarket would be great. I have
>seen them at FLAP store but they have several different options... what is
>best. I am planning on running a coffee pot, radio and a few small lights..
>nothing big.
>thanks
>tom