When you start adding electrical loads, at what point do you need a bigger alternator and/or another battery? How does one figure that out? Or is it a non-issue?

Examples would be a GPS, amplifier, spotlight, CB...

 

How many spotlights do you plan on running. Do you plan on running everything at one time?

 

I doubt it would all ever be running... but in a storm at night there could be more power draw I guess... Just thinking there must be some point at which the system can't handle it very well...

 

I would definately consider upgrading cause your alternator is only 90 amps. You would be better off getting having a 200 amp alternator. Especally if you plan on upgrading more. I bought a 90 amp alternator and plan on bring it in to have it rebuilt to a 200 amp. I also plan on having a winch and 6 spotlights front facing and 2 back facing. If your also worried about power you can also consider a dual battery setup. There a great how-to in the tech section. I hope I was some help. No one likes a dead battery especally on the trails.

 

Yes, big help. And the new tech writeup has great info, too.

Also, I googled "dual battery system" and found this article. Dumb luck it's on a Jeep...

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billav...tery_setup.htm

 

Wow. Well there you go. Let us know what you plan to do and how it turns out.

 

I don't think you need the big switch if you use an isolator. It can be wired to have the second battery be on or off. Thus no switch to do it manually.

 

Bigger is not always better.