Adding a Second Battery?

[wantanautique]

I have a 96 sport nautique. I'm looking for some guidance on adding a second battery. I want something like a perko switch to select the batteries etc.. My question is, do I need the 100 amp alternator upgrade? And what is a good location for the second battery. The first battery is in a battery box in the bow. There is a second battery box/access panel in the bow that is the same size but there is no battery tray. So anyone know where I can get a battery tray or a better place to mount the battery? Any directions and comments on this setup appreciated.

[Chexi]

You will not likely need the 100 amp alternator for 2 batteries. Describe your audio setup. It will help us answer.

[wantanautique]

You will not likely need the 100 amp alternator for 2 batteries. Describe your audio setup. It will help us answer.

Thanks for the input... currently I have a Fusion headunit, a 10 inch sub with amp and 4 6 inch speakers in the stock location. I may add more later but not for a while.

[Chexi]

Based on what you have described, you do not need to upgrade the alternator at this time.

[Hawktique]

I would do an isolator, http://www.ase-supply.com/Sure_Power...r_p/sp-952.htm. Rewire the breakers so the stereo breaker is running to the new battery, your other functions will be on your current batt.

[jjackkrash]

Hijack:

How do you like the Fusion Head Unit? I am looking at those, and its between the Fusion and an Alpine.

[ers906]

I have a size 24 and 2 27s without the alternator upgrade and have no problems, that being said, will be probably upgrade at some point (more out of a boredom project instead of necessity). I actually cut into the floor, removed the foam and glassed in a new large battery box with a drain into the bilge area to accommodate three batteries. I should have pictures posted somewhere on my profile I believe. Let me know if you have any questions.

[ers906]

Here are some pictures of the project, you can see the foam cutout (the second picture), then the wooden support frame, then it being glassed in (with black pigment to match factory)

[EchoLodge]

Good Info

http://www.hellroaring.com/simple.php

I tried an isolator years ago. I have been using an old school continous duty solinode ($30) for many years!

http://www.bcae1.com/battiso.htm