[Rover] External Battery Power in a 2011 Honda Pilot Questions for my Rover

[Rick R]

I cannot answer all of your questions, but I have 6 additional batteries in my van, 2 each in parallel running 3 different circuits (inverter and micros; 2 main transceivers; amplifiers). My 400W 2m amp draws 50+ amps as an example, and it's the biggest. I have a 180W 432 amp that takes about 36 amps. It drains the batteries fairly rapidly, and I keep the engine running for much of the time, especially to keep the voltage up at about 13.5V. If the batteries go to 12V or lower, the outputs all fall lower. BUT--the main thing I want to relay is that whatever the trailer hitch wiring is, it is unlikely that it will handle 50 amps. You need #8 wire or better for that current. I use #8 and a 50Amp fuse coming from the van battery to my charge distribution system. I use a 100amp solenoid switch. No ordinary 15 amp switch can handleheavy currents. Pay close attention to the ratings of all thecomponents you use when handling these big currents. I also have the "battery boosters" that can keep the voltage to the gear at the desired setting, even when the batteries run below 12V. Having the WestMountain isolator will be useful for this. It will allow you to charge the additional in-parallel batteries without the danger of losing your car starting ability. DON'T use the harness for the trailer--unlikely it can handle the large current needed for your brick amps. Also, have a fire extinguisher available, just in case all this heavy current decides to heat a connection. If possible, monitor both the battery voltages and the usage/charging current. I have a 0-15VDC meter and a 0-50A ammeter. How many amps does the alternator in the Honda supply?   GL, 73, Rick, K1DS