Is it okay to run dual batteries at same time? Or do you need a isolator or switch. I have my batteries hooked together as if they were one and just wondering if there are any drawbacks from this? I have a 200 amp alternator, big stereo, rear steer, cb, and plan on a big winch. :rolleyes:

It all depends on how you wire it. They have to be wired in parallel, not series or you'll be sending 24v out instead of 12.

There's more than one way to skin that cat though, so it's up to you. Do some searching and figure out the pluses and minuses of different methods. Pick whichever best suits your needs.

with a switch you'd have more of a back-up power source. and if installed with an isolator both the batteries would be charge while the engine is running.
case 1: batt switched to 1, truck would run off single batt(everything) and both would charge(if isol)
case 2: switch to both and truck would have a greater reserve power as it would draw off both batteries.
case 3: switched to 2, same as case 1, but the the other batt.

advantage of this set-up is if one batt fails or you kill it(lights) you have a back-up power source. and you also have bonus power for winch pulls, etc. this is using a marine style(boat)batt switch............Karl

It all depends on how you wire it. They have to be wired in parallel, not series or you'll be sending 24v out instead of 12.

There's more than one way to skin that cat though, so it's up to you. Do some searching and figure out the pluses and minuses of different methods. Pick whichever best suits your needs.

What is parallel? I think my setup is series now :( :shaking: How do you set them up to run parallel? :confused:

Parallel is +to+ and -to-,
series for 24v one -(ground) connect the +and-(not connected to anything else) and one +.
think of the 24v set up as stacking flashlight batteries in a Mag light, but only 2 batts.
there are ways to get 24v and 12v off of a 24v set-up, but it can get confusing if not actully seen...........Karl

AHH got it Actually I am running parallel now. :rolleyes: I think I will stay this way, seems to workout okay. Any suggestions on what batteries would work best for me? From what I have read, the yellow optima's might be the best for me.

I am running a single Redtop in my '85 yota, and so far am pleased with it's reserve starting power. I havn't hooked my winch to it yet but hopefully it'll be OK.

the Yellow is a larger CCA battery, so it would be better for a high amp situation. although with 2 batts the Redtops would probably be fine. depends how demanding you are on your rig........Karl