I have searched EVERYWHERE for someone to tell me how to mount dual batteries in my 2001 1500. I have the extra tray, but the problem is, there is part of the emissions unit right where the tray should go. Has anyone come up with a solution to get a second battery in there? Can the emissions unit be moved?

I purchased a used tray thinking this was a slam dunk project, but it has me baffled now. I want to run a second battery for my cabover camper. Is there another place more suitable to do this within the truck?

Thanks everyone. If anyone has a solution, then maybe they can send me some pictures? Thanks again.

 

How are you going to charge it?

 

It will have to be wired in parallel with the existing battery and charging system. At this time, I am unsure as to which direction the positive and negative cables need to be routed, but that bit of information should not be overly difficult to obtain.

As for the emissions equipment, I would assume that it is moveable, but you will have to find a correct placement for it.

 

That's the only way???

If it were me I would install a larger alternator to charge both batteries. Charging multiple batteries with the factory alternator is no bueno. Your alternator will hate you and kill itself over it, because it was never designed to do that.

Larger alternator, or do the poor mans trick and install a second alt. Good plan on running a dedicated battery for the camper.

 

Use an isolator for charging - available on most 4x4 web stores, and they usually have the wiring diagram there too.

 

A second alternator won't hurt performance at all. Unless you're racing thats not something you need to worry about. Both of my Ranger race trucks ran twin alternators to support my lights, GPS, and race radio/intercom, and I never had a performance issue.

 

Actually, I think that depending on the draw and size of the second battery, he might be able to get away with it. Then again, maybe not. I take for granted that the alternator in my 1997 was rebuilt and beefed up to 200A when I had it done. In the same fashion, I'm not sure that I could recommend installing a second alternator if the OP is performance minded at the very least.

 

How did my post get above yours..? lol

 

Don't hold me to this but I THINK if you do positive to positive and ground to ground it says 12v. When you do positive to negitive it makes it 24V.

For the emissions thing, you should be able to move that. I don't think it needs to be where people have to get to it for emissions testing

 

Some of the stock alternators were up to 136 amps. That should be more than adequate to keep the second battery charged.