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Dual Batteries

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Old May 13, 2006 | 09:50 PM
  #1  
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From: indian rocks beach fl
Dual Batteries

I just traded my 05 250 gas for a 06 350 dually due to a major change in my towing needs. The 350 had to have certain options so I settled for one that had a camper package. It wasn't till I got home to find two batteries which I guess is part of the camper package or do they all come this way? Not to sound stupid, but some education on dual batteries. I assume they are for running extra accessories one would put on the truck. Do the batteries discharge at the same rate , is one battery in reserve. I wonder if this is a liability and increased cost down the road. If it comes with two batteries, I guess two will always have to be installed?? My new truck is to tow a large RV a few times a year. A primer on dual batteries would be appreciated. Thanks
 
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Old May 13, 2006 | 10:27 PM
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I can answer your first question: all PSDs come with dual batteries as standard package. I'll let a few more knowledgable persons answer your other questions.
 
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Old May 13, 2006 | 11:18 PM
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the batteries are for cranking the diesel. they are wired in parallel so they charge and discharge at the same rate.
 
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Old May 14, 2006 | 12:18 AM
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Diesels require more power both for cranking and to run the glow plugs. The two batteries are wired in parallel (thus functioning as one large 12-volt battery with 2x capacity).
 
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Old May 14, 2006 | 12:25 PM
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Diesels are all about heat and compression, so they take extra torque and heated glow plugs to start up. That's why there are two batteries. Also, should also have a dual alternator system on your PSD that puts out 260amps, so you get the bonus of a higher capacity system to run accessories, recharge batteries, etc. The downside is you have to maintain and replace two batteries at a time.
 
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Old May 14, 2006 | 05:33 PM
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The PSD does NOT automatically come with dual alternators... that's an option. There are three units available - single 130A, single 140A heavy-duty, and a dual 260A configuration.
 
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