batteries and added stuff ...

[jeffryscott]

Currently I have an Optima Red Top, running generally stock accessories except for IPF lights. I have an MV50 air pump to install under the hood, I am adding a winch soon and eventually want a small fridge.

Will the Red suffice, or should a yellow or blue replace it?

Or, best case, I have room for a second battery if I don't mount the air pump under the hood. I'd like to keep the Red and would add another battery, which would be one of the deep cycle. Which would be better as the primary battery?

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[asteffes]

Buy an Odyssey so you don't have to worry about the deep cycle vs. starting battery issue.

It really depends which battery you think you'll tend to run down, which is determined by where you hook up your extra electrical devices. If you want to hook them up to a second battery and keep your rig's existing battery as a starting-only power source, you could use a Yellow Top as the secondary. Only real benefit is that they might survive deep discharges a little better than a Red Top.

I'm starting to think the Yellow vs. Red issue doesn't really matter. You really shouldn't run any battery down to zero, anyway, so just pick the battery with the largest capacity and a decent discharge rate.

I'm really liking the Odyssey batteries, as they should serve both roles (starting and deep-discharge power sources) well. Odyssey also stands behind their batteries with an impressive warranty. With all the stories of Optimas dying prematurely, I'm almost leery of installing the Yellow Top I've had sitting in the garage.

 

[goodtimes]

Jeff, you are quickly approaching territory where a 2nd battery is completely justified. I am pretty sure you can have your 2nd battery and your air compressor. You just need to think outside of the box (or in this case, outside of the engine compartment). I know of a couple people who are using Oddessy batteries (the little bitty one) as a secondary battery. They don't have the amp-hours that the full size batteries do, but in many cases, they can be hidden behind trim panels. IIRC, they are sealed, so you don't have the explosive vapor problem to worry about. (if they are not sealed, you don't want it inside).

BTW, I have monday off if you want to get started on that hunk-o-steel.