can i use both of the factory batteries to power my system?

[1wickd6 10+ year member]

I apologize if this is in the wrong section.

I have a 2002 Chevy 2500 HD that comes stock with 2 batteries. I'm not sure what the reason for this is, but my question is, is there a way to utilize both of these batteries to get more power to my amps?

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[shortyg83 10+ year member]

if you have 2 batteries installed they will be already hooked to eachother someway somewhere. So you would already be utilizing both of them.

 

[regal8r 5,000+ posts]

if its a diesel, thats why it has 2 batteries and yes you can use both of them if you like

 

[1wickd6 10+ year member]

if its a diesel, thats why it has 2 batteries and yes you can use both of them if you like

That's what had me a little confused because my truck isn’t a diesel, but both batteries look like they are hooked up. I don’t have a very clear understanding regarding the effect of multiple batteries. Is the only benefit being able to run your stereo for longer periods of time when the vehicle is off, or is there additional benefits?

 

[peas247 10+ year member]

duel batts are for extra work load, such as plows and back dragers

 

[Pottro 563 10+ year member]

could you take picture and send me it in pm. i have a spot for another battery and i wanna run on. im unsure on how you hook it up though.

 

[Pottro 563 10+ year member]

most chevy have that electronic brake control thing too. that little black box inside the cab by your right leg. i dont remember exactly what it is called or what it does but i know it is hooked up to your battery.

 

[1wickd6 10+ year member]

most chevy have that electronic brake control thing too. that little black box inside the cab by your right leg. i dont remember exactly what it is called or what it does but i know it is hooked up to your battery.

The brake thing you're referring to is for trailors, it syncs the truck's braking system with the trailors brakes so that the truck isnt stopping both itself and the trailor. I dont believe this is a factory feature, but rather an add-on if you do a lot of towing (I dont have one in my truck).

I guess my main question is, what does this additional battery do currently? It is obviously hooked up, so I understand that it can be used if additional features are added, ie wench, trailor brake system, etc. but in its current state without any of those things hooked up, what is it doing, and can I incorporate that into my stereo system some how?

Thanks again for the replies!

 

[jdc753 10+ year member]

Did you buy the truck new? or used? Perhaps the previous owner bought the parts from the dealership to add the second battery tray and such that the diesels would have and made it look 100% stock.

I got 2 batteries in my truck (from the factory.) They are hooked together and for the stereo I just have it connected to one of them. The two batteries should essentially combine to make one large bank of electrical energy so connecting to one is basically connecting to both of them if they are connected together.

BTW nice looking truck, its a shame its not a diesel though lol j/k But seriously nice truck ya got there (least if its the one in your avatar.)

 

[SQChevy 10+ year member]

I would suggest using an isoloator and having one battery for your stereo and one for the vehicle. That way blasting your system won't kill your car. I think all the parts you would need to set it up are about 100 bucks or maybe a bit more.