Wanting to install Dual Battery system in my 94 L400

[vanermi]

Hi guys, hoping someone can help me with a diagram or any information as to how to hook up my dual battery system. I have purchased a deep cycle marine battery, 90a battery isolator and power inverter. I am wondering if it's just a straight forward simple hook up or if it's a little more technical due to voltage regulators and other electronic systems?? Any other links that anyone knows about would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance
Matt

[RichD]

http://www.delica.ca/forum/new-power-in ... -8201.html

After a year with isolation of the onboard dual batteries I've decided to leave dual starter batteries in place and have a dedicated deep cycle for the inverter. That makes installation pretty straightforward; put the battery and inverter behind the driver's seat and run a line from your isolator under the hood.

[vanermi]

http://www.delica.ca/forum/new-power-in ... -8201.html

After a year with isolation of the onboard dual batteries I've decided to leave dual starter batteries in place and have a dedicated deep cycle for the inverter. That makes installation pretty straightforward; put the battery and inverter behind the driver's seat and run a line from your isolator under the hood.

Hey thanks for the reply!

I'm not sure we're talking about the same thing. I have a L400 Spacegear 1994 and it looks like you have the L300 is that correct? I'm concerned about splicing into the alternator and messing with some other electrical stuff that's also hooked up. Looks like voltage regulator is in line somewhere else rather that right at alternator??

I would like to see some instructions from someone that really knows what they're doing and if they've done it before. I do want to put battery behind seat like you say and have as dedicated power source when van isn't running, then when it's dead I will start the van up to charge up the deep cycle battery. Problem is I don't want to do this if I'm going to cook my alternator or put too much strain on my main battery. Last thing I want is an electrical problem down in Mexico.

Thanks

[TardisDeli]

Hi Vanermi, RichD recently got a L400 in addition to his L300 (plays on both teams now). But he is expert at the electrical stuff.

Fexlboi or TardisDeli posted a very very detailed diagram and photos last year of what Jay TardisDeli does when he installs dual battery/on board 2 bank charger / isolator / marinco shore power input / marinco 12v plug to handle the heavy duty needs of the electric cooler etc to start on either or both batteries etc. Jay has installed this setup on many L300's, but rarely on L400. I am more familiar with L300, but on the L400's the big problem is WHERE to install a large second battery (not good to install in sleeping compartment, all those disaster scenarios).

Our L300 has 2 big batteries (combined deep cycle and starter) from Edmonds batteries in Burnaby (they make em with strong metal plates inside, and combo posts etc). We can isolate the house battery while camping, so my electric blanket, microwave, oil radiant heater, cooler, christmas lights, etc don't drain the starting battery. Or I can select either or both batteries for starting.

Regards, Christine.

[Mr. Flibble]

I second RichD's post. While much of that post he linked is originally for an L300, it is identical if you have an L400, plus there is additional information in that thread. It is a great solution, and I saw his setup on his L300 in person.

About the only real difference between the two vehicles in this regard is the location of the batteries, and where you chose to put all the wiring and components involved.

I should also add, the 4Crawler site is a great read. The 4Crawler project is something I used to pay close attention to when I owned my 4Runner, but now I have my Deli.

Either way though, the 4Crawler project is an amazingly detailed project page and well worth checking out for all of the users modifications to his 4Runner.

Battery Link
http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks ... ries.shtml

Link to all his mods to his 4Runner
http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/index.shtml