Installing 2nd battery??

[Mich4x4]

I have been searching but cant find what I am looking for. I want to make use of the empty aux battery spot under the hood but DO NOT want to wire the battery in parallel with the original. I want to use an isolator. Can someone link a thread or a product (isolator) that will allow the alternator to charge both while only the main is used for starting? I run an inverter, Hella off road lamps, and travel in through a lot of "middle of no where" type places. Maybe link previous threads showing installs using an isolator??? I dont want to break the bank with a kit from painless If I can do this an easier/cheaper way. Advice, opinions? Other than the new battery, what hold down will work with the empty OEM tray?

 

Thanks for the help.

Jeff

[RyanbabZ71]

http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/topic/68855-how-to-install-dual-batteries/

 

Not sure if this wiill help or not?

[Mich4x4]

Thanks Ryan... I saw that one. He wired them in paralell. I am looking for opinions/write ups from guys that have used an isolator to seperate the 2nd battery. I disagree with the thread you linked in that I feel an isolator is absolutely necessary for my purposes. If you wire the batteries paralell then once you drain one, you drain them both. I do appreciate the link though.

 

anyone else. I know there has to be someone that has used a cost effect isolator.

 

Thanks

Jeff

[ChevMech]

My 2003 Silverado has a dual battery set up. I will describe it to you the best I can.

 

First of all, there is a factory style isolator on the fire wall. It completes the circuit via a small plug already in the wiring harness. It engages when your ignition switch is in the ON position.

 

Second, the red battery cable goes from the battery to the isolator, and another cable runs from the isolator to the post on the starter. You can run your ground anywhere you feel is best. Mine is run to the back of the block right behind the intake manifold.

 

Also, this kit is set up with a wire running from the second battery to the post on the top, left-had side post of the under-hood fuse panel. It connects to wire going to the trailer outlet in the back. With only one battery, there is a fuse connecting the hot trailer connection to the rest of the body.

 

I'm not near my truck by now, but I can get the part number off the isolater if you're interested and any pictures you may need.

[kstruckcountry]

I remember one with a solenoid that had 3 options. Disconnect, connect, and connect with ignition on. I'd google it and see what comes up.