Date:         Wed, 26 Mar 2003 11:56:49 -0500
Reply-To:     Anthony Hecht <lists@SLAPNOSE.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Anthony Hecht <lists@SLAPNOSE.COM>
Subject:      dual battery (yes, again)
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Hi,

Yes, I've read the archives, and that's why I'm asking. Sorting through all
of those flame wars is a nightmare, and I was hoping someone could advise me
on a couple of simple questions.

I'd like to get a second battery going, using a relay.

1. What kind of relay can I get at my FLAPS that will do the job nicely?
(I've looked into the Bosch VW relay, it's expensive and hard to find, and
I'm thinking there must be an alternative.)
2. What's the simplest wiring scheme? (I've seen some, including Harald's
excellent info, but they tend to refer to the existing refrig/heater relay
under the driver's seat, which I don't have. I'm not so interested in using
the fridge offline, I just want a second battery that will be charged up so
I can hook an inverter and a couple 12 volt outlets to it when the engine is
off.)

After reading probably a hundred or more archived messages on this subject,
I'm still not clear on how to do it, though I realize it's quite simple (no
EE, me). Is it possible someone can give simple, clear, succinct
instructions on how to do this? I'm sure many people would benefit.

Much obliged,
Anthony
'80 Camper "Badunkadunk"
http://travelinvan.com

P.S. - Many thanks to everyone who helped with our non-starting and flooding
issues a week ago. She's up and running like a champ now. Your help was
invaluable.