First, I'll give you some background. I have a 4th gen V8 4Runner. It has a standard 130a alternator. I'm making an overland rig out of it. I already have cables installed through the firewall to a rear distribution box and switches for aux. lights, ham radio, fridge, etc. The next part of my project entails adding a second battery (house battery). Actually, since my main battery is getting a bit old, I intend on replacing it when I install the house battery. I'll be going with agm batteries for both main and house. Not sure on brand yet (still researching). I will probably add solar power at a later date. I don't see me staying in one place for more than a day or two, so the vehicle will be getting charge from alternator every other day or so. Here are my questions:
I want to avoid current draining diode designed battery idolators, so I will be looking at a few VSRs/ACRs. I see many sellers, mostly on Amazon, offer VSRs (dual sensing) in the 120 amp continuous duty range that can support higher current draw for short periods. Would these be sufficient for my use, or will I need to use a higher amp unit? I see Cole Hersee offers a smart VSR that has 200a continuous rating but it is not dual sensing and might not be as flexible as the dual sensing units. BlueSea also offers dual sensing ACR but mostly in the 120a range. (they list a minuscule standby drain in the miliamp range though.. I assume it is because the unit has an led light to indicate ACR state). BlueSea also has a beefier unit at over double the price (rated at 500amp continuous). Will the 120 amp VSRs/ACRs be sufficient or should I go with the Cole Hersee or more pricey Bluesea heavy duty option?
Is there any other setup that would take care of my charging needs and provide possible solar control if I add solar later? I'm trying to do this job without killing my bank account.
Any thoughts on battery brands are welcome also. I've heard some negative opinions on Optima, but have never used them. Odyssey sounds very reliable as do Northstar, and X2
I've been reading many hundred posts here and elsewhere. Everyone has their own thoughts and there are many opinions out there. Given my requirements, what are your opinions? I really appreciate any thoughts you may offer.
I want to avoid current draining diode designed battery idolators, so I will be looking at a few VSRs/ACRs. I see many sellers, mostly on Amazon, offer VSRs (dual sensing) in the 120 amp continuous duty range that can support higher current draw for short periods. Would these be sufficient for my use, or will I need to use a higher amp unit? I see Cole Hersee offers a smart VSR that has 200a continuous rating but it is not dual sensing and might not be as flexible as the dual sensing units. BlueSea also offers dual sensing ACR but mostly in the 120a range. (they list a minuscule standby drain in the miliamp range though.. I assume it is because the unit has an led light to indicate ACR state). BlueSea also has a beefier unit at over double the price (rated at 500amp continuous). Will the 120 amp VSRs/ACRs be sufficient or should I go with the Cole Hersee or more pricey Bluesea heavy duty option?
Is there any other setup that would take care of my charging needs and provide possible solar control if I add solar later? I'm trying to do this job without killing my bank account.
Any thoughts on battery brands are welcome also. I've heard some negative opinions on Optima, but have never used them. Odyssey sounds very reliable as do Northstar, and X2
I've been reading many hundred posts here and elsewhere. Everyone has their own thoughts and there are many opinions out there. Given my requirements, what are your opinions? I really appreciate any thoughts you may offer.