If you're heading off-road for a 4x4 camping trip then you need auxiliary power. A dual battery system - two separate batteries working in conjunction with each other but for different purposes - will ensure your vehicle has start-up power and that your campsite equipment has consistent power.
Know what dual battery set-up you need, then get the right dual battery tray.
You need an auxiliary battery if at any point you'll need to run things like a fridge, lights and other camp accessories overnight, otherwise you'll run the risk of running out of power and you won't be able to start your vehicle in the morning.
What is a dual battery how does it work?
A dual battery is basically a battery set-up involving a second battery which is fitted in addition to your vehicle's original factory-fitted battery. The auxiliary battery is usually fitted in a dedicated area on a purpose-built dual battery tray, located in the engine bay or the cabin (or in the ute tray).
The purpose of the extra battery supply is to ensure the site you choose to camp gets consistent power on tap while not draining your main battery used to start your vehicle. Because let's face it, keeping your food and drink fresh and cold is a crucial ingredient of any great off road trip.
Well you could, but unless you're super-handy under the hood this is really a job for a qualified mechanic who has the right tools and knows their way around the vehicle. But if you think you have it in you to understand a dual battery wiring diagram, get for it... just make sure there is enough space in your engine bay, the cabin or the tray if you have a ute.
Be warned... a dual battery set-up is about more than just a 2nd battery...
The two batteries in a dual battery set-up - your vehicle's starting battery and your auxiliary battery - are two separate functioning parts. Your vehicle's battery and alternator power all vehicle operations when the engine is running, your second battery powers stuff like your fridge, lights, laptops, inverters with the engine off... BUT your alternator services both batteries.
EQ-DBE180-SXPiranha Electronic Micro-Processor Controlled Voltage Sensin...Piranha's DBE180-SX Electronic Isolator is a 180 Amp unit with full spike and su...$425.00
