This summer I plan on removing my IMA (by choice, not from any major IMA degradation) but keep the stock DC-DC converter due to it's ruggedness, higher current output, and proven reliability over the Meanwell PSU.
The plan is to remove the aluminum IMA compartment cover, relocate the tools area in the back to where the IMA battery was, open up the back behind the battery for storage space, and then build a cover to go over it all with sections removable to access the DC-DC, new tools area, and the expanded rear storage area.
Post IMA delete, idle RPMs will be back down to around 900 vs the 1200-ish that they are currently with the dummy lights on. To compensate for this my plan is to replace the 12V battery with a marine deep cycle battery.
I've seen deep cycle batteries that can sustain a 25A draw for over 6 hours, but they weigh over 60 lbs. One with a couple hours should probably suffice, I'm thinking. Enough for me to do extensive engine off coasting at night with headlights on without draining the 12V down too low.
Are any of you currently running deep cycle batteries in your Insights? Which brands and capacities work best for you? How long is the typical lifespan of a deep cycle battery compared to a typical 12V battery? Costwise I'd like to keep this under $200 if possible, but I'll go up to $300 if a more optimal capacity battery costs more and if their lifespan is long enough to justify the expense.
The plan is to remove the aluminum IMA compartment cover, relocate the tools area in the back to where the IMA battery was, open up the back behind the battery for storage space, and then build a cover to go over it all with sections removable to access the DC-DC, new tools area, and the expanded rear storage area.
Post IMA delete, idle RPMs will be back down to around 900 vs the 1200-ish that they are currently with the dummy lights on. To compensate for this my plan is to replace the 12V battery with a marine deep cycle battery.
I've seen deep cycle batteries that can sustain a 25A draw for over 6 hours, but they weigh over 60 lbs. One with a couple hours should probably suffice, I'm thinking. Enough for me to do extensive engine off coasting at night with headlights on without draining the 12V down too low.
Are any of you currently running deep cycle batteries in your Insights? Which brands and capacities work best for you? How long is the typical lifespan of a deep cycle battery compared to a typical 12V battery? Costwise I'd like to keep this under $200 if possible, but I'll go up to $300 if a more optimal capacity battery costs more and if their lifespan is long enough to justify the expense.