If i eliminate that giant stock intake box for a CAI can i put a dual battery in? What kinda work is that? Its a 97 HO 4dr. What are the benefits?

 

you can you just have to run an isolator, at least four gauge wire but in order for it to work right you will have to upgrade your alternator to a higher output one

 

you dont need an isolator unless you want to, i guess to have the second battery to run stereo, compressor whatever, and still want to start the truck after.

youll want to use two batteries in relatively the same shape, ideally is to buy two brand new identical batteries. all you need is two more cables and connect the negative to negative, and positive to positive.

and no, you dont need a larger alternator, unless you are running a larger electrical load. the truck runs off the alternator when its running, and to keep the batteries charged it takes a minimal amount of amperage. the stock alternator will be more than competent.

 

You guys seem to know a lot--but now i have 2 different opinions

 

you can run dual batteries. How you wire them depends on how you want to use them. Dual batteries without isolators are typically used for diesel trucks that require heavy starter loads. If you want to use one for running a winch or stereo while the motor is not running, then you will need to isolate them some way. You can use a manual isolator and switch them all the time or you can use a continuos duty solenoid and run it off the ignition. If you want the automatic feature with the continuos duty solenoid, then gel batteries like an Optima are recommended because they don't have any internal resistance and don't heat up if a heavy load is applied to them such as when one is drained and the other connected. Here is a diagram of how mine is wired. It is set up to kick in the spare battery if the first is drained from the lights being on or you can run a winch without the motor running and still have a good battery for starting.

 

With my K$N there isnt enought room for a Battery there.

 

imho running your winch without the truck running is asking for trouble. doesnt matter if you have 1 or 2 batteries.

again it all depends on what you want it for. if you just want it for better winter starts, just wire two together like everyone else does. if you want to run your stereo camping and still get to drive home the next morning, run an isolator, so that you can have one battery separated from the other.

but yes if you want optimum battery performance, dual or single setup, the optimas are the way to go. just be carely not to charge them too fast or youll cook em

 

Play these scenarios--Can i just spilt the wires i have now and go to two batteries or will that overload the alternator? what if i want the battery for an elctrical socket to plug appliances in (theoretically that could go in the back by the spare tire tho, but assume its under the hood)