3rd Battery for the ute

Thanks Kev, ;-))

Yes, I have just fitted a 3rd batt to the Chevnissan; just to assist the main batt with starting duties.

It depends a bit on where you want to/can fit the battery and what use you intend for it.

I'm assuming that you won't have space under the bonnet for a 3rd battery, so you'll need to find a place to mount it in or under the tray. Preferrably under I suppose. I would be making up (or buying) a suitable tray or box to house the battery. I would suggest you could run some HEAVY (I used "OO" cable) where you need to, making sure you have enough additional insulation to protect it from being worn through anywhere.

The actual connection/s will depend on what you're using it for.

1). If it's to assist the starter batt, (like mine) then I didn't use any gizmos (sorry for the very technical term) in between the 2 batteries.....IE: no solenoid, fuse, circuit breaker etc. I made sure I placed a sign on both ends, stating " CAUTION: CABLE ALWAYS LIVE". This is because even if a mechanic or someone should happen to remove the cable from the starter battery to do some electrical work etc, the cable is still alive due to the power coming through from the 3rd battery.

2). If you want to use the 3rd battery to assist your existing 2nd battery to run accessories etc, then a similar system to above could be used, but you can safely use a circuit breaker etc or even employ a manual or smart solenoid etc. However, I wouldn't bother......just a circuit breaker at both ends of the cable should be okay.

Hope this makes some sense......;-))

Cheers

Roachie

I thought you'd like an introduction :))

Kev

Thanks Roachie,
When u say circuit breaker what do you mean? a relay?

No mate. A circuit breaker (sometimes called a fusible link too) is a relatively small "box" (about 30mm x 10mm x 10mm). It has 2 bolts protruding out the top and on the bottom there is a mounting plate with 2 holes. The 2 bolts on top are marked "IN" and "OUT"......the "OUT" bolt is a bit longer than the "IN" one and they appear to be made of different metals (one is copper and the other is steel; or that's how they 'appear'). I just tried to find (via a Google search) a photo of one, but couldn't see one anywhere.

Anyway, your local auto electrician would have them in stock in various capacities.

Hope this helps.

Hi Derek,
I will be mounting the battery just behind the driver's seat on the tray. Not underneath. It will be used solely to power fridge and lights.
I can not remember what the isolation system is but it is dealer fitted.
Can I simply wire it in Paralell?
Peter

Yes, use heavy wire, at least 8 B&S and parallel them.

Fit a large fuse or circuit breaker at each end of the cable. (50 amps will do).

I would use auto reset breakers if you have a winch fitted or sometimes try cranking off the no. 1 aux battery.

Thanks derek,
I will do a few measurements and put in an order shortly...... In the meantime I will get the dimensions of the battery.
It is 2 years old and I believe it is an agm but wil find out anyway.
cheers peter

Hey Pat,
Thanks, you can expect some more pictures in september after my next adventure...... Am hoping this one will be at least 6 to 8 weeks.
In the meantime I have just put up a selection of pics for a portfolio for a job www.extremefilm.com.au/portfolio Fingers crossed I get it. :)
Unfortuanetly I have not got the measurments as yet but I plan to mount it on the tray just behind the drivers seat. Will do something very simple and will mount it on the road as I will be taking a drill and grinder with me.
What I need to know is do I need any other Gizmos (As Roachie puts it) or can I just simply run straight to the 2nd battery in Paralell? Just remembering I am not keen on keeping this machine.
Peter

Thanks warfer69

Your positive feedback is much appreciated.

Regards

Derek.