Have considered a dual battery setup or portable power station, but I think this is the way to go for me. Price is a bit eye watering but buy once cry once and the weight and space savings (net 50+ pounds compared to a dual battery or portable power station) on a small truck (Ford Maverick) make it very appealing. Sounds like there are a couple of positive long-term reports (Take the Truck https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXTz3Ie6Wfc and @julian 's build report) but not much else. Seems like LiFePO4 started batteries are sometimes used in performance cars, particularly the Anti-gravity batteries (which max out at 60Ah)
Any other reports - especially long-term - out there?
it should be fine.
personally i prefer to keep things separate: starting battery for starting the truck and running all the Baja Designs I got, while a separate 100AH LiFEPO4 with DC-DC charger runs everything recreational (camper lights, starlink, diesel heater, etc). this way, if I gotta park for a few days while camping I’m not gonna drain my starting battery. also if i need to add more things or something goes wrong it won’t stop me from starting the truck.
I have the same philosophy as WS6616. Separate starting battery and separate 100Ah LifeP04 (~25lb) with Redarc BCDC1225D charger. Charges while driving or Solar, whichever is providing more power. Been in operation since Apr '22.
I also carry one of the small jump starters as a backup for my starting battery. So far I have used it twice for other people.
This may meet your needs and I expect will be more cost effective than the dual-purpose lithium you are researching. Good luck.
Which idea did you steer away from?
The Lithium starter battery that was originally discussed? The separate Lithium and standard starter battery? The small jumper battery?
Certainly, there have been issues with Lithium over time (cell phones, scooters, etc.) so we all need to be aware.
What was your final solution?
I steered away from the Dakota as a starting battery. Went with an Optima yellow top for my starter battery.
I have been using a Renogy 100aH for 3 years now. It is great! If you are are planning on running a starlink and diesel heater. I strongly suggest going with a minimum of 200aH.
I’m always changing things, because it’s fun to tinker. My current solution has moved to a fully mobile power solution.
