2009 ranger dual battery

[09RangerMike]

Hey just a few question about installing a second battery. First the reason for wanting a second is so one battery can run my radio and lights with the truck off and the other battery just starts the truck. Ive seen on another forum the way they welded up a bracket to fit the two batteries perfect and was bolted on the sidewall of the driver side. My question is does having a second battery require anything else to be installed? Does it put stress on my alternator?

 

[RangerSVT]

You will need a high current relay so separate the batteries when the key is off...

SVT

 

[09RangerMike]

Thats it? Everything else will be okay?

 

[RonD]

Yes, that's about it.

Have a look here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/DualBatteries.shtml

Stock alternator is fine to use, an alternator is not used at full power 95% of the time the engine is running.
Adding a second battery just means the alternator will have to charge it IF it has been drained, which will only happen on those days/nights you run the lights and music with engine off.
On those days when you start engine alternator will work 85% of the time to recharge both batteries.

 

[09RangerMike]

Thanks a lot for all help

 

[RangerSVT]

You also have a high output alternator, unlike the older vehicles, which will help recharge the batteries faster. If you upgrade the battery, starting, and alternator charge cable size, as well as grounds from battery to engine, engine to firewall, firewall to chassis, and battery to chassis, this will help in faster starts, faster recharges and longer battery, starter, and alternator life...