[niko]

Hope this post is in the right thread...

I've purchased 2 x 55AH 12v batteries which I plan to wire together for 12v 110AH to run everything off in the field.

There doesn't seem to be a battery box that will fit the 2 of them so I thought I'd build me own. Does anyone have a wiring diagram for a fuse controlled cig lighter output. I would also like to have a voltage monitor (or at least low battery level indicator). If I recharge through this "box" setup can I make straight connection to terminals or do I need controller in between to stop overcharging?

My other question is recharging. I recall the recharger needs at least 10% of the total AH which would mean a 10amp recharger. Can I use one for lead acid batteries? The deep cycle rechargers run to $100s. My alternative is to charge it through 20w solar panel with 6amp controller in between. Is this sound? It would sit recharging most of the week and only be used for say 2 nights out of 7 so the length of time to recharge is not such an issue.

thanks in advance to the considerable brains trust.

cheers

niko