AFAIK the Vanagon Westies didn't come with a second battery at all.   The
extra
bay was for a battery that would run the wheel chair access.   The fridge
runs off of
the main battery/alternator when driving only.   Otherwise the fridge is on
shore power
or propane.   I bought my Westy brand spankin' knew in May 1991.  No 2nd
battery
period.    Hell, it has cruise control, heated side mirrors, 2 beds, stove,
sink and fridge
what the hell else do you need besides a good book and a sleeping bag?
Okay, maybe
some pillows.....    :)

On Sat, Oct 2, 2010 at 6:26 PM, Loren Busch <starwagen@gmail.com> wrote:

> On Sat, Oct 2, 2010 at 6:10 PM, Mark Hineline <hineline@ocotillofield.net
> >wrote:
>
> > There are so many permutations (and problems) with providing auxiliary
> > power that I wondered how Westies were equipped when they left the
> > dealer's lot, and how they performed as campers when new (and
> > presumably fitted with only one battery).
> >
>
> From the factory, Westfalia camper package, with single battery, used one
> realy, in the aux battery compartment, that  would provide 12v to the
> refrigerator when the engine was running only.  At least that's what I
> understand.  All the rest of the aux stuff (radio, lights, etc) had to come
> off the starting battery.
>