Itsavanman
Adventurer
Plotting out some stuff for my superu. while just using the starting battery to run things works as I keep a jumper pack ready and waiting, I'd like to install a small deep cycle to run lights, and do some other things like possibly a cooler. anyways, I already have an 8 gauge wire running for the amplifier. basically what I would like to do, is use this wire to be a 12v port on the trailer plug, run to the power port, as well as be connected to various LED's. anyways what I would like to do is run a 5 prong relay so when the vehicle is running it pulls from the regular battery / charging system, disconnects the deep cycle, and charges it. and once the vehicle is turned off the relay disconnects the wire from the regular charging circuit, and connects in the deep cycle. now with this setup all the batteries and ports share a common ground, which from what I've seen on most motor homes, isn't done. I can assume its because of backfeeding, or still drain the starting battery. or ? now I've never used a battery isolator could I use one for this particular setup? do I need one? will a simple diode do the trick? and if so where exactly would I put it? Also, as far as charging the deep cycle.. every battery charger ive ever seen has a option for deep cycle charging. I know to keep them happy they need a specific charging style, can I just charge off my alternator? or are there any cheap onboard charge controllers that run on 12v? or is it overkill? and finally since I'm putting increased demand on my alternator, and its got a bearing squeak, I plan on rebuilding it, and while I'm in there beef up its output. problem is. its a subaru alternator. anyone know if they make increased output kits for these? I don't want to spend over $200 for a new alternator, id rather tweak what i have..