Orion MBR70 multiple battery regulator... advice plz.

chodecz · Post by **chodecz** » Sun Sep 23, 2007 2:57 pm

Hi guys,

I want to install two batteries in my car, i'll keep the standard one up front to power my headunits, DVD player, headrest monitors, etc. Then have my Optima yellow top in the back for my amps.

I've been offered a Orion MBR70 for $70. What do you guys think of this piece of equipment?? I was going to buy a full kit like this: http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/value-s ... -4394.html but now it seems I only need the Orion and a couple of fuses (and holders) and some 4 or 1/0awg cable which I already have.

I understand the Orion only takes 4awg. I also understand that the Orion only sends charge to the aux battery if the main battery is FULLY charged?? Is this correct? If so.. and my main battery is being drained from my headunits, monitors, etc. then my yellow top won't get any charge!!?

Sorry about the length of this thread

Need some help guys, hehe. Will be much appreciated! :)

cargodz · Post by **cargodz** » Sun Sep 23, 2007 3:41 pm

Well you have to understand that the MBR-70 is best used in conjuction with a high output alt... Your h/u and monitors don't use that much more juice than stock, but then you add in the charging abilities of a H/O alt and it should keep both of them charged at full potential with no worry of ever draining your main battery under the hood as most of your power drain will come from your amps

chodecz · Post by **chodecz** » Sun Sep 23, 2007 4:16 pm

Cool. I have a standard 100a alt atm., I am looking to get a 250a. People dont upgrade alts here in the UK like they do in the US.

Is it easy to get mounting brackets, etc? What do you recommend manufacture wise?

cargodz · Post by **cargodz** » Sun Sep 23, 2007 5:50 pm

Pending the vehicle you may be getting a direct replacement alt that'll mount right up.

Post by **GlassWolf** » Sun Sep 23, 2007 8:35 pm

I have an MBR70 and I may have a manual for one.
if I do I can scan it for ya and zip it over some time when Ive got a chance.

chodecz · Post by **chodecz** » Mon Sep 24, 2007 2:22 am

I have a Vauxhall (Opel, General Motors) Astra Coupe, with a 1.8 litre engine. I know you guys don't get them in USA for sure!! Here it is.. http://homepage.ntlworld.com/con2000/astra_new.jpg

Is $70 a good price for the MBR70???

Thanks Glasswolf!

cargodz · Post by **cargodz** » Mon Sep 24, 2007 2:37 am

Yeah $70 seems like a good price for one and anymore there not that easy to find either.
As for your car... Nice ride

and I'm sure if you're getting an alt built specific for it you sholdn't have to much trouble bolting it up.

Purple RS · Post by **Purple RS** » Tue Sep 25, 2007 9:46 pm

I'm running with 2 batteries in my Camaro, but I use a diode isolator to separate the two. I know they draw a little from the charging system, but it works well for me. Basically the same type of setup that RV's use so they can run hotel loads off the auxiliary battery while keeping the main battery separate. I also had the stock alternator rebuilt to output 140 amps (standard is 105). The tech who built my box recommended (when I thought my isolator was starting to fail) an isolator/combiner which is all solid state by Hellroaring Technologies http://www.hellroaring.com/

My old school isolator by Phoenix Gold and beefed up alternator

chodecz · Post by **chodecz** » Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:39 am

Glasswolf, have u got that file for me? :)

Darthness · Post by **Darthness** » Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:42 am

chodecz wrote:I have a Vauxhall (Opel, General Motors) Astra Coupe, with a 1.8 litre engine. I know you guys don't get them in USA for sure!! Here it is.. http://homepage.ntlworld.com/con2000/astra_new.jpg
Is $70 a good price for the MBR70???
Thanks Glasswolf!

http://www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/a ... /index.jsp