Date:         Wed, 16 May 2007 01:09:15 -0700
Reply-To:     PB <pbrattan@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         PB <pbrattan@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Newbie battery questions
Comments: To: Loren Busch <starwagen@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <86476e250705152336x12fb7201r1cab0f34346e1938@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

I can't tell you how much I appreciate these explanations, because I
actually understand them!  I checked around this afternoon for a replacement
aux battery that would fit in the cavity, but realized that there isn't an
ideal solution, and the one I have is both a deep cycle and starting
battery.  At first I had no idea about the difference between a starting
battery and a deep cycle, but from what I understand a deep cycle is
preferable, as it can be drained without damaging it.

I really haven't tried out any of the camping equipment, yet, as I've been
giving all my attention to the main battery.  I did manage to locate the
stereo kill switch, but I don't know if it kills the whole auxiliary
battery, or just the stereo.  I'll find out tomorrow.  It really is a HUGE
system.  Tomorrow I'll see if I can disconnect it and still get a reasonable
amount of sound.
Patti
**************************************************
On 5/15/07, Loren Busch <starwagen@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> RE: You could, conceivably, connect all the extra Westy stuff (interior
> lights, fridge, etc) to the main battery and it would work.
>
> Actually, the Westy comes from the factory with everything on the starting
> battery.  If an aux battery is added using the stock relay setup ONLY the
> refrigerator is moved to the aux battery.  All the interior lights, radio,
>
> and cigarette lighter remain on the starting battery UNLESS additional
> wiring changes are made, changes not included in any of the usual
> instructions for installing an aux battery whether with relay, isolator or
>
> separator.  Most setups add additional 12v outlets that are attached to
> the
> aux battery so that the computers, DVD players, etc.  only draw from the
> aux.
>
> The instructions for moving the interior lights, etc to the aux battery
> have
> been post several times recently, check the archives.  There is a
> difference
> in how it is done depending on the year.
>