Dual battery system

[soundguy]

I've got a 2001 Utopia 185 and want to put a dual battery system in it. I've seen a few different ways to do it but I'm not sure which is the easiest/best way.

Since it doesn't come with 2 batteries from the factory, no one wants to give me quality advice.

Any suggestions? Try to be specific as I'm not that knowledgeable about boats (I've put dual battery systems in vans before though).

Thanks for your help!

 

[seadoosnipe]

Battery switch...

If you have the place to put in another battery box, you can use the marine battery selector switch. This will allow you to turn both batteries off, one on and one off or both of them in the on position.....

You can find this selector switch at West Marine or any marine store near you.

I've attached a drawing of how the system can be set up that is best for a 2 battery boat.....:cheers:

 

[soundguy]

Funny thing...I just left West Marine earlier this afternoon. It sounds easy to do and I'm pretty sure I can fit another battery opposite the existing battery. This sounds like something I can handle and I appreciate your help on this. Thanks again and have a great day!
atriot:

 

[Seadoopilot]

A piece of simple advice
Use only TINNED WIRE
nothing less than 4 guage
use heat shrink tubing over the top of every solidered joint
Use Tinned lugs
The Heat shrink tubing should be the type that has hot glue in the center
Use dielectric compound on every bolted connection

If you doo this it will be a connection that wil last the life of the boat