Ark Pak, Thunder or Baintech power top

[Niwige5]

Hi all
Have entered the world of secondary batteries!!! Already have a second battery in the camper trailer in a simple battery box. Charges via Anderson when travelling and used for sink pump and LED lights only...like to keep things simple. Certainly not interested in TV's microwaves etc. and have effective 130w solar used to top that battery up when static.
Thinking of installing 2nd battery set up in vehicle (no room in engine bay) specifically for a 40w engel and of course have come across the three items as per subject line. Notwithstanding all having similar sockets, Anderson plugs etc with the Baintech the only unit lacking a 240v inverter (though moving away from needing that requirement). There doesn't seem to be much in the way of comparison road tests so asking for thoughts.
Long standing remote workers and travellers (Kimberley, Central Australia) and about to spend a year LWOP from work travelling the country again, so any advice appreciated.

[robcaz]

Hi Niwige5,

A 100 amp hour deep cycle battery would be the minimum size to run an Engel particularly in the heat keeping in mind the rule of thumb not to allow the battery to discharge below 50% capacity for best battery life.

Jeff's article gives you a good insight to an Engel's power consumption in hot weather http://www.campertrailers.org/fridge_po ... mption.htm

Most commercial battery packs seem to have a small charger that is more suited to the average weekend camper. The rule of thumb for a multistage charger is around 10% to 15% of the battery size, so a 10amp to 15amp multistage charger is best suited to a 100 amp hour deep cycle battery.

Jamie's Touring Solutions has the Power Easy complete with a Redarc BCDC built in which ensues the battery is fully charged while on the road via the 3 stage DC-DC charger. If you go the BCDC1225, this model also has a MPPT solar regulator http://www.jtsonline.com.au/jts-extreme/powereasy.html