travel cooler, how long will my battery last

[BENOLUX]

this may sound like a rookie question but im curious to know how long i could run my travel cooler. it draws aproximately 4.2 amps and im not sure as to how long i could run it on my truck battery and then start the car.

any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
thanks benolux

[drivesafe]

Hi Benolox, a sure fired way to find out, park your truck near a power point and just run your fridge and see how long it takes to get the battery down to about 11.5 volts and see if you can start the truck.

Depending on how big and how well charged the battery is, will govern how long you can run the fridge.

Cheers

[BENOLUX]

good idea never thought of that, thanks for the idea mate, ill have to try it.

[ferrit]

my travel cooler (5A draw) killed an N70EX battery to the point of not being able to start a 2.8D hilux wthin 12 hrs

[want33s]

Hey Benno, if you plan on using the fridge a fair bit I'd suggest a dual battery setup with an isolator.
Normal lead acid batteries don't last long if you run them flat frequently.
AGM gel cells on the other hand LOVE IT.
I got my second batt from ebay..(1000cca.. 90amp/hour) delivered for $220. the isolator was another $100 and something.
Now I can run a fridge like yours for 18-24 hours or more and KNOW I can still start the car easily.
You have heaps of room for a second battery.. I'm sure you could make a tray to hold it easily enough.
Your biggest cost after the battery itself will be the extra cabling needed
Jas.. you're welcome to check out my setup.

[BENOLUX]

thanks jas, it isnt a huge thing so i might leave it as it is atm, single battery and only use it wen driving or the car is started, im deciding weather i want a gas fridge or an engel or waeco, it will be a while till i get either but idk i will see, suss it all out.

[want33s]

thanks jas, it isnt a huge thing so i might leave it as it is atm, single battery and only use it wen driving or the car is started, im deciding weather i want a gas fridge or an engel or waeco, it will be a while till i get either but idk i will see, suss it all out.

I know they cost quite a bit more but I'd be buying a FREEZER not a fridge.
If you are going bush for three days or more you don't just want your meat etc cool, you want it frozen.
Trailblazers are pretty good but do your own research and you'll find something suitable in your price range. Gas works out a lot cheaper but can only be used while vehicle is stationary.
I have seen a kero fridge/freezer on a ute tray with the exhaust running through it. As long as the engine was running the fridge/freezer was cold.
That setup cost the owner $50 in total. If you are cluey enough or know someone you could hook up a gas pilot flame as well for when vehicle is not running.