dual battery system question

[gu4800]

OK, I know it has been asked before and covered many times. I have a basic question, well 2 actually, about different systems, and more the technical side of things.

1) Essentially, what is the difference between the Piranha DBS - this one http://www.piranhaoffroad.com.au/produc ... DBE180.htm and say a Redarc one - like this http://www.redarc.com.au/smart-start.htm

The Pirhana obviously "looks" like a better unit, being fully enclosed, etc, etc, but does it have any different features? Does it do anything different?

2) The ARB "kit" supplies the Smart Solenoid System, but mentions that "isolators" are other optional controls. This being the case, what exactly does the soleniod do and what would you need an isolator for? Can you just buy the solenoid? Do you need both?

The reason I ask, is because the Piranha unit describes itself as an "isolator" in its text, but in reality is it a solenoid? Or, is it both in one unit?

Thanks in advance.

[Cossie]

2) The ARB "kit" supplies the Smart Solenoid System, but mentions that "isolators" are other optional controls. This being the case, what exactly does the soleniod do and what would you need an isolator for? Can you just buy the solenoid? Do you need both?


Thanks in advance.

you need a smart solenoid or or an isolator, not both.

the isolator links the batteries when the ignition is on, and isolates the 2nd battery when the ignition is off. If you are winching it is possible to flatten both batteries, then stall the vehicle and leave yourself up shit creek. Also if you left the ignition on for a long period it wouls flatten both.

The isolator has no voltage spike protection so not recommended for vehicles with an ecu.

The isolator is not particularly waterproof, the smart solenoid is.


The smart solenoid isolates the 2nd battery when the voltage drops below a certain level (12.? volts I think) so it is not possible to flatten both batteries. Should the main battery go flat, the solenoid automatically links the batteries to allow you to start off the aux battery.

Just buy the smart solenoid and have done - it is a very good piece of kit!

[murcod]

The Redarc solenoids are another option. They have the "smart" control built into them and spike protection IIRC- supposedly you can pick them up very cheaply compared to the "well known" brands. (I believe you can buy them for under $100.)

http://www.redarc.com.au/

http://www.redarc.com.au/smartstart-techspec.pdf