| Author | Message | ||
     Darryll Mills (Emnat) New Member Username: Emnat Post Number: 16 Registered: 11-2003 |
How many people run two battery's in their discovery's?? I am mounting a warn xd9000 and was wondering if I should install a second battery.. | ||
| Lewis Jones (Cutter) Member Username: Cutter Post Number: 190 Registered: 10-2003 |
just run a good batt., unless you plan on a LOT of winchin' often. In twenty years i've never killed a batt. with a winch. and Optima Yellow tops rule. | ||
| Donald McFarlane (Dsmcf) New Member Username: Dsmcf Post Number: 28 Registered: 11-2003 |
I run a dual battery system, but would never dream of running a winch off of it... it's more a question of supporting significant radio, laptop and other accessory usage at engine idle or indeed engine stop without any qualms or concerns about running the battery down. Also seems quite prudent to be able to combine them for seriously cold starts. Not to mention that it has saved me from having to get jumped on at least four occasions when I have left something turned on accidentally, usually the headlights. And yes. Optimas. One red top, one yellow top, as you would expect. | ||
| Jamil Abbasy (Jamooche) Member Username: Jamooche Post Number: 206 Registered: 05-2003 |
red and yellow together? I thought you had to have 2 of the same type to run dual batteries? Also are there any other ways to mount them besides buying the expeisive aedofab tray? I am going to be using my laptop and GPS in the car with a power inverter soon. I also have a winch and some lights. How critical is it to have the 2nd battery? That is when do I absolutly need it? Jamil | ||
| Steve Cooper (Scrover) Senior Member Username: Scrover Post Number: 591 Registered: 09-2002 |
"red and yellow together? I thought you had to have 2 of the same type to run dual batteries?" Only if you run them in parallel. If you isolate them it's of no consequence. It's always good to have a 2nd battery. It was one of the first mods I did. We all carry jerry cans of full of extra gas that we rarely need, spares that we hope we'll never need, why not a second battery? My first setup was pretty nasty. Cheap full size regular batteries with an aux. deep cycle on the driver's side. Had to relocate the PS reservoir and cruise control vacuum module. I used a cheap isolator that sucked almost a full volt out of the charging circuit. That lasted a few months - not reliable and leaked twice as much acid as one battery - big mistake. After further research I ended up with this setup and it's been awesome. Invisible and maintenance free for a year now: http://www.landroverstuff.com/tech.htm I've since added a second isolator/combiner with a third Odyssey battery in the back for A/C power, cooking and refrigeration etc.. Overkill? Sure, but I can jump start a 747 if called upon to do so  SC (Yeah, I know it's not a Disco but the similarities are uncanny ) | ||
| Jamie (Rover_puppy) Senior Member Username: Rover_puppy Post Number: 473 Registered: 05-2003 |
Darryl, I'm running dual yellow tops in my rover. I purchased a dual battery tray fabricated by http://www.aedofab.com/. Tray made install easy. He also made marine battery cables for the install of the Optimas. Check out your local auto parts stores if you buy Optima batteries - they are WAY cheaper than online and you don't have to pay shipping for those heavy things!! A good way to test to see if you should put dual batteries on board is to turn all the extra equipment you will run and leave it all on overnight. If battery is dead, you need dual batteries. If rover still starts, you'll probably be ok for awhile. Good Luck, Jamie | ||
| Jamie (Rover_puppy) Senior Member Username: Rover_puppy Post Number: 474 Registered: 05-2003 |
Donald, I keep my rover running and charging battery when I use my winch. No problems that way Jamie | ||
| Jamil Abbasy (Jamooche) Member Username: Jamooche Post Number: 208 Registered: 05-2003 |
Jamie, That's an interesting test for the need of 2 batteries...maybe I should try that... I saw those pics you posted a while back about your battery setup. Let me get this right...you took the old battery connections and hooked them to the 1st battery and then just took those connectors and connected them to the 2nd battery. If so, should take 5 min to set it up once you get the tray in. Seems to easy, maybe I am missing something. Jamil | ||
| Donald McFarlane (Dsmcf) New Member Username: Dsmcf Post Number: 33 Registered: 11-2003 |
Ugh. Just checked out the Aedofab thing. Very $$$. Probably a little more sturdy than my setup but not much. I just took the standard battery tray, attacked it with a dremel tool, put a 2x4 in the bottom to even it out, and dropped in the two batteries in a similar orientation to the Aedofab thing. Then reassembled using factory studs and a piece of aluminium bar, again similar to the aedofab thing I guess. However, I put a length of heat shrink over said bar because it would be way to easy to short the battery against that bar otherwise. And I still get to have water splash protection from the battery box and cover. And used the rear wall of the battery box to rivet my diodes to. | ||
| Paul D. Morgan (V22guy) Dweb Lounge Member Username: V22guy Post Number: 2212 Registered: 02-2002 |
All you need is 28 volts DC for a 747 jump Yes, the Aedofab thing is on the planning table for me. | ||
| William C. Leek (Onionman) Member Username: Onionman Post Number: 111 Registered: 07-2002 |
OK, What about those of us who still run only one battery? Is the Optima Red Top or Yellow Top better for single battery operation? My Disocvery is stock, no extra winches or computers drawing extra charge. But, I will be reaching the point soon of needed to replace my battery and am thinking of spending the extra money for a quality Optima this time. | ||
| Ray Gerber (Raygerber) Member Username: Raygerber Post Number: 180 Registered: 09-2002 |
Will- I would get the best you can afford. Considering your truck is stock, a red top would likely be fine, but if you plan on doing a lot of modifications in the future you may consider a yellow top if you want to drop the $$$ up front. I've got lights & a winch all into one yellow top right now, and I am thinking of adding a second, isolated, battery and will probably get a second yellow top just b/c, I could easily use a red top as the starter and run the accessories off the yellow, but I like overkill in these things. Just my $.02, many would say use the extra $$$ saved by getting a diehard or something and put it towards a lift, protection, etc, but hey-its your truck and your $. r- Ray | ||
| Steve Cooper (Scrover) Senior Member Username: Scrover Post Number: 593 Registered: 09-2002 |
"All you need is 28 volts DC for a 747 jump" Damn, I just hope that situation never arises then. I suppose I could rig the front batteries in series with the rear battery if push comes to shove (Don't try this at home) The Aedofab tray is very cool BTW SC | ||
| Jamie (Rover_puppy) Senior Member Username: Rover_puppy Post Number: 475 Registered: 05-2003 |
Donald, I felt the same way since $$$, but it was the only viable option out there. I changed my mind when it arrived and decided it was a bargain!! I was awed speechless when I took it out of the box. The quality is unbelievable. It was my first experience of being totally impressed by something that was fabricated. Yes, I did have to remove the stock battery box (I relocated the bottle jack to my one remained cargo cubby and added aircraft grade velcro closures to the lid due to the weight of the jack (rollover protection which I pray I never experience) I moved the jack as far forward in the bottom of cubby as I could for better weight distribution) The bolts for the fabbed tray go right into the same holes that the stock battery box used (I liked that alot). I too was concerned about about the battery getting wet and brought that up with my tech, he laughed it off and said it can get as wet as I can get it (I don't know if that is true for regular batteries) and my battery has been wet while running trails. And I spray it down with full force of garden hose just like the rest of the engine - no problems. After install, I did take a tiny bush and painted dilectric grease up into any areas of connection wires that water could be forced into - but, that was probably not necessary. I stand on a ladder and wash the battery and connections off gently with a washcloth in bucket of soapy water just like I do with the other painted areas in my engine (sometimes mud splashes don't just spray off) I keep a little tiny can of wire dryer in my rear cargo door "just in case", but have never used it. After I finish washing my engine, I leave it open and run it for about 15 minutes while I go after the dirt/mud in my rear wheels and brakes and skid plates - I don't know if that's necessary or why I do it, I just do (maybe just security that I didn't break anything while washing it out??) Running 2 batteries gives me peace of mind and security because most of the time dogs and I are out there alone - I know you're not "supposed" to do that, but I do, and I always CYA by filing a "flight plan" so others will know my location and if I did not return. Even with 2 batteries, I have built in safeguards to protect them from my being a dunce at times I like the saftey factor of optimas being closed cell. I also agree with get the best you can afford, even if you have to save for it or wait for an awesome sale. One way that I have reduced costs is to go to a local store, give them a "grocery list" of items they don't usually stock, and they have reduced prices significantly to an "in and out the door price" - which was profitable for both of us. I would suggest that you give yourself room to expand with whatever set up you choose - this will end up saving you money in the long run. Mike made the marine connection cable that connects the 2 batteries so nothing else was needed - you just cut your regular batteries and crimp the cables from it to the cables from Mike (he made them for me an additional nominal fee - I'm not good at those kind of things) Here are pics of the tray and cables that Mike made for me. It is not as complicated as it looks - just ignore all those extra wires and fuses, they go to other stuff I added (you guys already know about all that b/c I drove you all crazy while I was trying to figure it out) One of my most recent additions (that pics don't show) are big "+" and "-" signs near the battery posts made with big black permanent marker (oh well - looks goofy, but it helps me out when hooking up power inverter). Good luck. If you run into any problems along the way, give me a holler - I probably hit the same obstacle or probably already broke it and learned how to fix it Jamie      | ||
| Paul D. Morgan (V22guy) Dweb Lounge Member Username: V22guy Post Number: 2213 Registered: 02-2002 |
LOL Steve, I can see the LR commercial now.....A 747-400 freighter parked on an ice covered ramp in Alaska with a 50 ft jumper cable connected to it and a Disco. Jaime, that looks great. Thanks for posting those pics. Paul | ||
| Jim Reynolds (4x4xfar) Member Username: 4x4xfar Post Number: 181 Registered: 05-2003 |
In this month's "Four Wheeler" there is an article on dual batteries. After thinking about that it might be "4Wheeler" anyway one of the two has a build up starting on an F150 and the first thing they did was install dual batteries and an isolater. Check it out -JIm | ||
| Jamie (Rover_puppy) Senior Member Username: Rover_puppy Post Number: 477 Registered: 05-2003 |
Well thanks Paul!! I must be making actual progress in my quest to receive a compliment from you!! Getting your compliment is even better than the message in it, you just made my day Maybe now I can graduate from kindergarten and go on to first grade?? You guys might be giving the guys on the show Dumb Ass some ideas?? I saw part of that show for the very first time a few nights ago (MTV?) - oh my gosh, those boys are crazy!! I sure hope they are making tons of money from that show - I can't imagine anyone insuring their operation?? | ||
| Randy Maynard (Rans) Senior Member Username: Rans Post Number: 689 Registered: 08-2002 |
I have dual redtops....wanted the yellows, but couldn't pass up the $79.99ea price at my local 4x4 store for the reds. I too have the Aedofab tray. Love it, worth every penny. Mine are in parellel. All investigation told me NOT to use an isolator as it prevents either battery from getting a full charge. But I have to disagree with Jaime's test of leaving all of the electrics on all night to see if you need a 2nd battery. If you do that you will certainly need at least one new battery! It's really not good for a battery to flatten it completely if it can be avoided. I do agree with Jaime on the peace of mind factor. While we all know that when using the winch one should always have the engine running at at least 2000rpm while the winch is running, it is good to know that if you get stuck in deep water, and the engine craps out, you can still winch out with some confidence when you have 2 batteries. | ||
| Reid Walkenhorst (Runningmule) New Member Username: Runningmule Post Number: 20 Registered: 05-2003 |
I'm running dual red top optima's w/hellroaring isolator. I've had no problems. The nice thing with the Hellroaring system is that you will always have a fully charged battrey. To me, the piece of mind of having a good battrey in remote area's was more of an issue. For extreme winching applications dual set-up w/out an isolator may have it's benefits, but once your dead your dead. Being able to always run your vehicle while winching may not always be the case. In my opinion, if you know your switching to back-up at least you can reconsider your options. The remote module w/the Hellroaring unit also provides a LED which indicates alternator function. That's kinda nice. Downside is the $300.00 cost. | ||
| Brendan Kearns (Howboucha) Member Username: Howboucha Post Number: 147 Registered: 01-2003 |
On my XD: Red Top, Warn XD9000i winch. No issues. Brendan 97 XD 98 LE | ||
| Victor Biro (Vabiro) Member Username: Vabiro Post Number: 41 Registered: 10-2003 |
Hi, Has anyone upgraded their alternator? I have heard that GM alternators will swap right in for the LR due to the pedigree of the LR engine. On another list I watch someone put in a 150amp GM alternator, but he didn't expand on what modifications were needed. Anyone have any experience with this? Victor | ||
| Darryll Mills (Emnat) New Member Username: Emnat Post Number: 17 Registered: 11-2003 |
Thanks for all the info, I'll let you know how the install goes. Darryll | ||
| Jamie (Rover_puppy) Senior Member Username: Rover_puppy Post Number: 485 Registered: 05-2003 |
Victor, I know nothing about this yet - I only overheard it in a conversation and I might have gotten it wrong. No time now to investigate. But, if I remember correctly, there is a neat thing called a Power Welder (I think) that goes under your hood. The big plus of the installation was that it has (or upgades) your current alternator. The guys were excited b/c they could weld and have alternator protection too? Again, I could be all wrong. I'm pretty clueless when it comes to alternators and welding. The entire conversation was flying straight over my head! Jamie | ||
| Randy Maynard (Rans) Senior Member Username: Rans Post Number: 693 Registered: 08-2002 |
I have a guy up in NJ that specializes in alternators, inverters and onboard welders. He probably supplies 90+% of units of this type to phone companies, power companies, electricians, and city trucks in the Eastern Pa, NJ, lower NY area. He guided me thru the battery process and he has to be THE most knowledgable guy I've ever met concerning the electrical charging system in a vehicle. He can upgrade you to a 200amp, 300amp, 400amp and generator, and hook up as many batteries as you might think you need, and also include an inverter and a welder....only your imagination can limit the possibilities! | ||
| Donald McFarlane (Dsmcf) New Member Username: Dsmcf Post Number: 34 Registered: 11-2003 |
the power welder thing you are thinking of is made by the same folks that do the pull pal. | ||
| Bill Bettridge (Billb) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Billb Post Number: 1273 Registered: 02-2002 |
Mean green also make a high output alternator that fits. There was a recent thread on POR about alternators that work/fit also that is worth checking out Bill | ||
| Victor Biro (Vabiro) Member Username: Vabiro Post Number: 43 Registered: 10-2003 |
Bill, "POR"? Victor | ||
| Lewis Jones (Cutter) Member Username: Cutter Post Number: 203 Registered: 10-2003 |
pirate4x4.com pirates of the rubicon |
