Date:         Mon, 27 Apr 1998 14:29:00 +0100
Reply-To:     Jodi Sage <Jodi.Sage@MCI.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Jodi Sage <Jodi.Sage@MCI.COM>
Subject:      Using Aux Batt for CD Changer
Comments: To: Vanagon <Vanagon@VANAGON.COM>

Hello!
   I've been on the list for approximately 8 months, and have found the
posting and archives exceptionally informative and useful. Past
posting have provided me information on tire recommendations, cost of
exhaust systems, how to fix/tighten the outside mirrors, and repairing
rusty spots to name a few. Now I have a question(s)...

Design Issue:

I'm considering installing a Remote FM CD changer in my '85 Wolfsburg
Weekender Westy, using the aux battery as the power source. Ideally
I'll have the store installers do the actual installation of the CD
changer (probably sitting vertically behind the drivers seat). My
questions are on how to implement the design.  (You bet, I did research
the archives/FAQ files looking for answers/instructions with
some luck and ultimately alot of confusion.)

What I do know:
1.) I don't use the dometic frig...I took it out, to small for my
needs and I don't have a sink so I don't need a water pump.
2.) Under the drivers seat there are cables/terminals for a battery.
3.) Automatively challenged - basic maintenance is pretty much my speed.

Design Requirements:
1.) I want to maintain the ability to charge both batteries while
driving (per the VW owners manual suppliment: camper "wolfburg
edition" this is what should be happening already).
2.) I don't want to discharge the primary battery when the engine is
not running.  Manual is a little vague on this.
3.) Keep it simple

Questions for the experts:

1a.) Will I need a relay, switch, diode etc?   (In a posting dated 14Mar96
it sounds like a relay would be a darn smart idea, to prevent
discharging both batteries.)  OR

1b.) As I already have the cabling/terminal under the drivers seat do I
already have an isolated battery?  (posting dated 16Nov95 indicates
that WWWs came from the factory like this.)

2.) How do I run the additional power line for the cd changer?

3.) Can I add the cd changer to the aux battery and not lose the
ability of the 12 volt socket to charge my cell phone?

4.) The battery dimensions are important, so I'll need a deep cell
battery (sealed) for use in either a marine or wheel chair
application. Does this still hold true?


Regards,
Jodi