How to choose the right battery size

sfsmedic

Adventurer
I've been reading a lot and can't seem to find this jnfo. There is a ton of info on the subject but the problem is it all talks as though we all know and already understand the terms. With that said. I do not in somewhat ignorant of the subject and looking for an education.

I want to put in a dual battery setup. I will be going the route discussed in the thread about how to build a dual battery setup for under $50. However now I need to select my batteries. I have no idea size or how to select the right size.

I do know id like to go AGM. I am unsure of where I will be mounting both batteries as of right now (2012 Tacoma DCSB TRDOR). There is room under the hood for both but my front end is heavy enough so I was thinking one in a battery box in the bed.

I would love input on this and please remember. Easy on the tech speak unless it's explained please.


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wrcsixeight

Adventurer
If you have room under the hood for the battery I would recommend putting it there. The length and thickness of cabling to properly recharge a depleted Aux battery is a significant cost, and the routing of the cabling adds significant distance when the battery is placed "in the back"

We can't help you with how big a battery you need as you do not state what you will be using the battery to power, or how long, or how often you will be driving.

Generally the biggest you can fit in your intended location is a good strategy.
 

DiploStrat

Expedition Leader
Hard Question!

Sadly, there is no easy answer to this question.

You might start with this:
http://www.macandchris.com/ElectricalSystemSizing.htm

And then use this:
http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/calculator-sizing-a-battery-to-a-load.html Or this: http://www.lifelinebatteries.com/rvsizing.php to figure out how big a battery bank you need.

Basically you need to know how big a load for how long between recharges.

Notes:

-- Guesstimate that your loads will run some 25% higher than you think.

-- Your battery can only be discharge to 50% of capacity.

-- Your recharge will take twice as long as the numbers indicate.

Do these are you are not likely to be disappointed.
:)

As a wise man said: "
Generally the biggest you can fit in your intended location is a good strategy."
 

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