Thread: Battery Relocate / 2nd Battery

Originally Posted by BrianCheung

Has anyone given a thought as to relocating their battery to the truck and adding another battery in parallel. I know a lot of people want to run their carPCs with the car off for a short amount of time (i.e. loading the map to something before they depart, or listening to music / watching a video while waiting for someone) Would it be feasible to add a second battery in parallel with the first to allow longer use before being discharged. Would there be any problems with charging or any other associated problems with using two batteries?

Similiarly, does anyone know a laptop that runs off of 12v DC? I know different laptops run off different voltages. If I can find one that I can wire to take 12v DC, then I can use the internal battery from the laptop to power the laptop when my car is off.

i had this exactly setup... and the only way you would ever need two batteries is if you plan on sitting your vehicle for more than an hour with a huge power drawing system. Its really not worth it unless you do alot of sitting in the car and not driving.

Originally Posted by BrianCheung

When you did it, did you have any problems with the setup?

I'm thinking of using two battery relocation kits, putting them in the trunk, and wiring it up with 0 gauge wire. (just to be on the safe side)

My reason is that I'm going to do the battery relocate anyways to get more room in the front and I want to have a video recording system with several cameras that I want running 24/7

i had no problems what so ever with the setup.. i just added a yellow top to my existing electrical system with a stinger 200amp isolator and 2 gauge wiring (you dont need 0 gauge.. its overkill for an accessory battery). Do you plan on running your cameras thru the computer? if so forget runnin em 24/7 unless you drive enough to fully charge both batteries daily.