The new Jeep TJ dual battery...
The new Jeep TJ dual battery tray from MG Industries fits '97-'03 models and enables the use of two Optima Yellow Top or Red Top batteries.
Anyone who has ever killed their battery while winching or welding can attest to the fact that a single battery setup just doesn't cut it in a regular use 4x4. Though it may keep the tunes churning out of the stereo and maintain its regular engine-igniting duties, it feels the added draw when burdened by a winch or underhood welder. We've even seen a single battery drain from repeated starting attempts due to faulted fuel injection systems and carburetor deficiencies. Each of these predicaments is easily remedied through the use of a dual battery setup. Until lately, this wasn't an underhood option for Jeep TJ owners because of a crowded engine compartment. MG Industries, however, has now made it possible.
Using a dual stacking tray setup, the Jeep TJ Dual Battery Tray from MG Industries enables the use of two Optima Yellow Top or Red Top dual-post batteries. The team at Mean Green and co-designers Larry Davis and Matt Martin of Mad4wd.com achieved this by placing the batteries on their sides, one on top of another. The extra posts are still available for additional electric connections and the batteries fit neatly in the allotted area. The tray and brackets are constructed from stainless steel, have a powdercoated finish, and use factory bolt locations for a simple installation. Along with the dual battery kit, we also installed a Mean Green High Output alternator, said to offer as much as 300 percent more charging power.
Because the batteries are stacked atop each other, a non-spillable, deep-cycle battery was needed to design the kit. The Optima brand was selected because of its proven off-road ability and wide availability. In addition to being fully sealed and maintenance free, Optima batteries offer a higher and more consistent voltage under load, rapid recharge capability, and an increased vibration resistance. We had Kilby Enterprises in Burbank, California, carry out the installation of the Mean Green Dual Battery Tray and High Output alternator in our Project PMO TJ; now we benefit from a superior charging system. Your TJ can reap the same rewards. Check out the captions to find out how.
 1. Along with the dual battery...  1. Along with the dual battery tray, we elected to install a Mean Green High Performance alternator. The battery tray components are constructed from stainless steel and are powdercoated green. |  2. The Mean Green kit is designed...  2. The Mean Green kit is designed to accommodate two Optima deep cycle batteries, which offer the necessary ability to be stacked atop of one another. |  3. How do you fit two Optima...  3. How do you fit two Optima batteries in a space that's scarcely large enough for one? MG Industries found a way. |
 4&5. The stock battery tray...  4&5. The stock battery tray was removed along with the battery temperature sending unit. We made provisions to secure it to the new tray. |  |  6. We also decided to install...  6. We also decided to install a Mean Green High Performance alternator to ensure that our mated Optima batteries maintained a full charge. The Mean Green unit is a direct bolt-in for the stock alternator and is said to offer a 300,000-mile life expectancy. |
 7&8. Using stock and provided...  7&8. Using stock and provided hardware, the bottom Mean Green battery tray secures to the same bolt locations as stock. The provided hardware includes recessed Allen bolts, leaving a flat surface upon which the battery will rest. |  |  9. The bottom Optima was then...  9. The bottom Optima was then set in place on its side. |
 10. A second battery tray...  10. A second battery tray was then placed atop the first Optima battery. The tray is recessed on the top and bottom to accommodate both batteries and hold them securely in place. The top tray bolts to the bottom tray using provided threaded posts. |  11. The Mean Green High Output...  11. The Mean Green High Output alternator bolted right into the stock location and used the factory wire connections. We'll benefit from faster charges and be able to run multiple electric-powered accessories. |  12. The second Optima battery...  12. The second Optima battery was installed in the top tray and the top clamp was installed to secure it in place. Later model Jeep TJ owners may need to relocate the PCM box on its factory mount to create ample space for the dual battery setup. |
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