Jeep Gladiator Auxiliary Battery: 2020 Install Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered about adding an auxiliary battery to your 2020 Jeep Gladiator? Well, you're in the right place! In this article, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about installing an auxiliary battery in your Gladiator. From understanding why you might want one to a step-by-step guide on how to get it done, we’ve got you covered. So, let's get started and supercharge your Jeep adventures!

Why Add an Auxiliary Battery to Your Jeep Gladiator?

Let's kick things off by understanding why you might even consider adding an auxiliary battery in the first place. Think of it as giving your Gladiator an extra boost for all your adventures. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator auxiliary battery can be a game-changer, especially if you're an overlanding enthusiast or someone who loves off-grid adventures. The stock battery is great, but it's really designed to handle the standard electrical needs of the vehicle, like starting the engine and running the basic systems. When you start adding a bunch of aftermarket accessories, that’s when things can get a little strained. We're talking about things like winches, off-road lights, refrigerators, and high-powered audio systems. These accessories can draw a significant amount of power, and relying solely on the main battery can lead to a couple of problems. First, you might find yourself with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere, which is never fun. Second, constantly draining your main battery can shorten its lifespan, meaning you'll have to replace it sooner than expected. An auxiliary battery acts as a secondary power source dedicated to running these accessories. This takes the load off your main battery, ensuring that it always has enough juice to start your engine. It also provides a more stable and reliable power supply for your accessories, which can improve their performance and longevity. Plus, with an auxiliary battery, you can run your accessories even when the engine is off, which is perfect for camping or other situations where you need power without idling your vehicle. In short, adding an auxiliary battery gives you peace of mind and enhances the overall capability of your Gladiator, allowing you to enjoy your adventures to the fullest. Whether you're powering a fridge to keep your drinks cold or running a winch to get you out of a tricky situation, an auxiliary battery ensures you have the power you need, when you need it. Isn't that cool?

Planning Your Auxiliary Battery Setup

Okay, so you're convinced that an auxiliary battery is a good idea. Awesome! Now, let's talk about planning your setup. This is where you need to think about what you want to power and how much power you'll need. First off, consider the types of accessories you plan to run with your 2020 Jeep Gladiator auxiliary battery. Are we talking about a few LED lights, or are you planning to run a full-blown mobile command center? Make a list of all the accessories and their power requirements. You can usually find this information in the accessory's manual or on the manufacturer's website. Once you have a list of accessories, add up their power consumption in amps. This will give you a rough idea of the total power you'll need from your auxiliary battery. Keep in mind that some accessories may have intermittent power draws, while others may draw power continuously. Plan accordingly to ensure you have enough capacity to handle both scenarios. Next, think about the type of auxiliary battery you want to use. There are several options available, including lead-acid, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat), and lithium batteries. Each type has its pros and cons in terms of cost, performance, and maintenance. AGM batteries are a popular choice because they are sealed, maintenance-free, and offer good performance. Lithium batteries are more expensive but offer higher energy density and longer lifespans. Consider your budget and power requirements when making your decision. You'll also need to consider the location of your auxiliary battery. The engine bay is a common location, but space can be limited. Some people choose to mount their auxiliary battery in the cargo area or under the rear seat. Wherever you choose to mount it, make sure it's secure and protected from the elements. Also, consider the proximity to your main battery and accessories to minimize voltage drop and simplify wiring. Finally, don't forget about safety. Use proper wiring techniques, fuses, and circuit breakers to protect your electrical system from overloads and short circuits. A well-planned auxiliary battery setup will not only provide reliable power but also ensure the safety and longevity of your electrical system.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, let's get to the nitty-gritty – the installation process. Before you start, remember to always disconnect the negative terminal of your main battery. Safety first, guys! This will prevent any accidental short circuits during the installation. Gather all your tools and materials. You'll need your auxiliary battery, battery tray or mount, wiring, fuses, circuit breakers, connectors, and a battery isolator or management system. A battery isolator is essential for preventing the auxiliary battery from draining your main battery when the engine is off. Locate a suitable spot for your auxiliary battery. If you're mounting it in the engine bay, make sure it's away from heat sources and moving parts. Secure the battery tray or mount to the chosen location. If you're mounting it in the cargo area, you may need to fabricate a custom mount. Next, install the battery isolator or management system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for wiring and setup. Typically, the isolator will connect to your main battery, auxiliary battery, and the vehicle's electrical system. Run the wiring from your main battery to the auxiliary battery. Use appropriately sized wiring to handle the current draw of your accessories. Secure the wiring with zip ties or cable clamps to prevent it from rubbing against sharp edges. Connect the auxiliary battery to your accessories. Use fuses or circuit breakers to protect each accessory from overloads. Make sure to ground all accessories properly to the vehicle's chassis. Double-check all your wiring connections and ensure they are tight and secure. Once you're confident that everything is wired correctly, reconnect the negative terminal of your main battery. Test your auxiliary battery setup by turning on your accessories and monitoring the voltage. Make sure the auxiliary battery is charging properly when the engine is running. If you encounter any issues, recheck your wiring and connections. If you're not comfortable with electrical work, it's always a good idea to consult a professional installer. A properly installed auxiliary battery will provide years of reliable service and enhance the capability of your 2020 Jeep Gladiator.

Choosing the Right Components

Choosing the right components for your 2020 Jeep Gladiator auxiliary battery setup is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Let's break down some of the key components you'll need to consider. First up, the auxiliary battery itself. As we mentioned earlier, you have several options to choose from, including lead-acid, AGM, and lithium batteries. Lead-acid batteries are the most affordable option, but they have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance. AGM batteries are a good middle ground, offering a balance of performance, cost, and maintenance. Lithium batteries are the most expensive but offer the best performance and longest lifespan. Consider your budget, power requirements, and usage patterns when making your decision. Next, you'll need a battery isolator or management system. This device prevents the auxiliary battery from draining your main battery when the engine is off. There are several types of isolators available, including mechanical isolators, solid-state isolators, and DC-to-DC chargers. Mechanical isolators are the simplest and most affordable, but they can cause voltage drops and may not be suitable for all applications. Solid-state isolators offer better performance and reliability but are more expensive. DC-to-DC chargers provide the best performance and can also regulate the charging voltage to optimize battery life. Wiring is another critical component. Use high-quality, appropriately sized wiring to handle the current draw of your accessories. Consult a wiring chart to determine the correct wire gauge for your application. Also, use fuses or circuit breakers to protect your electrical system from overloads and short circuits. Finally, don't forget about accessories like battery trays, connectors, and terminals. Choose high-quality accessories that are designed for automotive use. A well-chosen set of components will ensure that your auxiliary battery setup is reliable, safe, and performs optimally.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Once your auxiliary battery is installed, it's important to perform regular maintenance to ensure it stays in good condition. Start by checking the battery voltage regularly. A fully charged AGM battery should read around 12.8 volts. If the voltage drops below 12 volts, it's time to recharge the battery. Clean the battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion. Use a battery terminal cleaner and a wire brush to remove any buildup. Inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged wiring immediately. Check the fuses and circuit breakers to make sure they are in good condition. Replace any blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers. If you're not using your auxiliary battery for an extended period, disconnect it from the vehicle's electrical system. This will prevent it from draining due to parasitic loads. If you encounter any issues with your auxiliary battery, start by checking the wiring and connections. Make sure everything is tight and secure. If the battery is not charging properly, check the battery isolator or management system. Make sure it's functioning correctly. If the battery is dead, try charging it with a battery charger. If the battery won't hold a charge, it may need to be replaced. By following these maintenance tips and troubleshooting steps, you can ensure that your auxiliary battery provides years of reliable service.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Everything you need to know about installing an auxiliary battery in your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. From understanding the benefits to planning your setup and performing the installation, we've covered all the bases. Remember, adding an auxiliary battery can greatly enhance the capability of your Gladiator, allowing you to power all your favorite accessories without worrying about draining your main battery. Just be sure to choose the right components, follow the installation steps carefully, and perform regular maintenance to keep everything running smoothly. Now get out there and enjoy your adventures with the peace of mind that you have plenty of power to spare! Happy Jeeping!