Hi. I've fitted/made a few split charge systems. And to be honest I'm not much of a fan of the fancy ones.
The last split charge system I fitted was on Chris Scott's Hilux This system was so simple and did the job very well. Basically I fitted a second battery, the neg lead went to the chassis and I ran a 100 amp wire from the number one battery to a big on/off switch on the dash, from there the lead went to the second battery (normal leisure battery). When you're driving along you turn it on to send the charge through to the second battery, and when you stop simply turn it off, easy! The big draw back is that YOU have to remember to turn it OFF when you stop the car!!!
Also, a VERY good idea is to have a simple (40w?) solar panel, then if you do flatten all your batteries, you do have the option of waiting for a day to charge one up.
As for types of batteries, the gel ones are a bit better, and much safer. But I personally think the normal acid batteries are fine, and much cheaper too!!
If you can afford it go for the gel batteries (Optima or Odyssey etc), but if you're on a budget stick with acid (battery, not house music!).
Cheers,
Matt
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