Vito 638 with 2 batteries?

[phez]

Hi all,
New to mbclub as wanted to ask a question that is probably really simple to solve and make me look stupid!

Can anyone tell me why there is a battery under the passenger seat on my Vito 638 but also a battery under the drivers seat too?

Many thanks and look forward to your replies

 

[dog68]

That is your leisure battery

 

[BTB 500]

Second battery was an option on the later W639 Vito, so quite possibly it was on the W638 as well. The other option was an uprated (bigger) single battery.

 

[phez]

Thanks Dog68 & BTB 500.
Not sure about the leisure battery though as is it a standard ex works van from Cornwall Council so wouldn't need one? I thought it may have been for cold starting or something.
The battery under the drivers seat is connected to something but I can't find out what as the neg & pos leads go into the floor pan?

I think I will check it out and if it is independent from the main battery (under the passenger bench) I will probably take it out as I want to put capt seats in.

If anyone hears of any seats going please let me know.

 

[BTB 500]

Yup the factory second battery option is just to add extra capacity, if a van is likely to be used for lots of short stop/start trips or extra (non standard) electrical equipment is fitted. I think it came with an uprated alternator too.

 

[Giantvanman]

If anyone hears of any seats going please let me know.

If you are on Facebook, worth watching/joining the Groups, Mercedes-Benz Vito and Mercedes Vito Buy and Sell as they (and lots of parts) crop up regularly…there is quite a big modifying community out there whilst those on the forum tend to be into upgrades in the main.