Tools for Auxiliary Battery Installation

Installing an auxiliary battery in your van will take a few tools that most DIY mechanics probably won't have on hand.  A proper set of wire crimpers, a small torch or heat gun to install the heat shrink and a step drill to make the hole for the rubber grommet will cover all of the basics.  Here are a few affordable solutions for people who will only use these tools occasionally.

Crimp tool:  HS-16 Ratcheting Heavy Duty Crimp Tool.  Usually available for ~$20.00 on eBay (search for "HS-16 Crimp" to find the best deal).

I generally drill out the rivets that hold the ratcheting mechanism in place to allow precision crimping force without crushing the terminal (click image for detail).

Butane Torch - Bernzomatic 019585 Flexible Stem Butane Lighter

~$10.00-$12.00

Works well for installing heat shrink and makes a nice addition to the van for lighting the stove etc. 

Mini Heat Gun - EGC HG-300D Mini Heat Gun

~$20.00-$25.00

Perfect for heat shrink tubing and terminals. 

Step Drill - JEGS Performance Products W9003 Step Drill Set

~$10.00-$15.00

1/4" hex shanks.  1/16" increments.