Backup starting power

[VanLifeCrisis]

So, I think there was an article or post about this but I cant find it. What do I need to buy if I want to hook my house battery to my starting battery so if I need to I can tap that delicious juice instead of upping my creepy guy in van factor by begging for jumps from strangers. I don't care about charging the house battery from alternator, if that matters(I use a plug in charger).

A switch of some sort I'm guessing.

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I had one of those jump packs that i keep charged but i guess its not up to the task from a totally dead battery...

 

[Zil]

Just a long enough jumper cable. Easy to make up if you can't find prepackaged. You really only need the positive to reach from the house to start battery. The negative can go to the closest metal frame or bumper. If you need it more than rarely, you need a new start battery.

 

[coultergeist]

Hi Dazar,

The best thing for your situation would probably be a marine battery selector switch. You can connect two batteries (or battery banks) to it. You can select either battery for use, use both batteries, or disconnect both batteries. Very flexible. It would allow you to start off either battery or you could turn both on and charge both while driving. They're not that expensive. You should be able to find one for around $40.

Patrick

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

Like this one?

http://www.amazon.com/Perko-8501DP-Marine-Battery-Selector/dp/B00144B6AE

I shoulda thought of running my jumper cable....not sure if itll reach but they are pretty long

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What guage wire would be suitable. The batteries are behind the passenger side slider...so maybe 15 to 20 feet.

 

[coultergeist]

That's one of them. There are a number of different brands. That one looks like it would do a good job. I would say a 2 gauge wire would be sufficient. You could go bigger with an 0 gauge, but 2 gauge should be fine.

Patrick

 

[highdesertranger]

yes that would work. they make a simpler one that is just off and on. a little cheaper too. perko's are good quality I have used and installed them for years. highdesertranger

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

Oddly enough the simple on off version is 20 more :huh:

 

[WheelEstate USA]

I'd think you'd want the 4 position switch so both batteries will charge while driving.