Ideas/Help on multiple battery banks
 

Folks-

I have two banks of batteries; Blue Top Optima's for starting and Yellow Top Optima's (deep cycle).

I want to use the first bank when the engine is in the 'On' position and the second bank only in 'Accessory.' (Multiple Amps, Stereo etc.)

I originally had everything working well and when adding a couple more batteries I have clearly messed up what is connected where. Anyone have any quick tips or recommendations?

Thanks in advance,

Re: Ideas/Help on multiple battery banks
 

The easiest/safest way to do it will be to run all of the power wires for the amps and what-not through a high amperage relay (usually called a solenoid in the amp range you'll be looking for). Then use an acc lead to energize the solenoid coil. The highest amperage rating one I have personally used was a 100 amp that I used to control power for 4 12V compressors in an air suspension in my old truck. Be sure you get one with a 100 % duty cycle. Starter solenoids have a high enough amp rating, but only have about a 20% duty cycle. The place I found the ones I used was Wrangler power products.