How to Install the Toyota Hilux N80 Behind-the-Seat Kit | Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to upgrade your Toyota Hilux N80 for off-grid adventures, installing a behind-the-seat dual battery kit is one of the smartest modifications you can make. This kit keeps your auxiliary battery safely tucked behind the rear seats while powering fridges, lights, water pumps, and other accessories on your off-road trips.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step installation, including all the tools, wiring, and tips to make the process smooth—whether you’re doing it yourself or planning to have it installed professionally.
Why Install a Behind-the-Seat Kit?
The behind-the-seat setup offers several advantages:
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Maximizes cargo space: The battery is tucked behind the rear seats, leaving your tray or storage area free.
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DIY-friendly design: Elevate Auto designed it for easy installation.
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Flexible setup: Supports different battery types (100Ah or 200Ah) and chargers (Redarc or Victron).
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Safe and secure: Properly mounted with factory brackets and nut sets for stability.
With this kit, your Hilux can handle all your off-grid accessories reliably.
What You’ll Need
Before starting the installation, make sure you have the following:
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Toyota Hilux N80 Behind-the-Seat Kit
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Battery (Lithium or AGM, 100Ah or 200Ah depending on your setup)
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Charger (Redarc or Victron) and shunt (optional, depending on system)
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Charge harness (twin BNS cable, either 6BNS for 40A chargers or 8BNS for higher amp setups)
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Standard tools: socket set, screwdrivers, pliers
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Safety gear: gloves, eye protection
Step 1: Remove the Battery
Before installing the kit, remove the starter battery:
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Disconnect the negative first, then the positive terminal.
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Remove the battery from its tray.
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This makes it easier to access the bolt behind the battery and simplifies moving the kit in and out.
Step 2: Remove Rear Seats
To access the rear panel and install the bracket:
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Unscrew the five bolts holding the rear seat in place (two on each side, one in the middle).
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Disconnect the seat plug—there is usually a small cover over it.
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If your Hilux has carpet covering the area, carefully make a small cut along the bracket edge for a neat finish.
Tip: Removing the rear seats completely gives you more room to manoeuvre the kit and wiring.
Step 3: Prepare the Mounting Bracket
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Remove factory plugs under the seat to allow the bracket to sit flush.
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Use factory mounting bolts at the top and insert a nut set for the bottom.
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Remove any plastic covers or tabs that may interfere with bracket placement.
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Optional: Remove child restraints to make access easier.
Once prepared, position the bracket in place and secure it using the nut set and bolts.
Step 4: Run the Wiring
Installing the Charge Harness
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Use the 6BNS twin cable for a 40A/50A charger (or 8BNS for 25A charger).
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Run the cable from the behind-the-seat kit to the starter battery:
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Through the passenger-side trim area
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Along the passenger-side footwell ducting
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Through the firewall grommet into the engine bay
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Install an inline fuse for safety (e.g., 60A MIDI fuse).
Connecting to the Battery
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Positive cable goes to the positive terminal of the starter battery.
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Negative cable is grounded to the chassis.
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If using a second battery, remove it temporarily to make firewall access easier.
Optional: Solar Input
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Run the solar input cable underneath the rear panel.
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This allows connection for portable solar blankets or hard-mounted panels.
Step 5: Reassemble the Hilux
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Replace the rear seat once the bracket and wiring are secured.
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Reinstall any plastic covers or child restraint mounts.
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Double-check all connections for security and proper insulation.
Your behind-the-seat kit installation is now complete!
Tips for a Smooth Installation
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Make sure your harness length matches your charger’s amp requirements (6BNS for 60A fuse, 8BNS for 40A fuse).
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Always disconnect the negative terminal first when handling batteries.
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Use the factory mounting bolts for a clean, professional finish.
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Run wiring along factory channels where possible to avoid abrasion.
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Test your system before heading off-grid.
Why Elevate Auto’s Hilux N80 Kit is Ideal
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Designed for DIY or professional installation
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Compatible with Redarc and Victron chargers
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Fully Australian-made with quality components
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Easy integration with solar setups, dual battery systems, and BMS monitoring
Final Thoughts
Installing a behind-the-seat kit on your Toyota Hilux N80 is a game-changer for off-grid adventures. It maximizes cargo space, protects your batteries, and powers all your accessories reliably. With careful installation and proper wiring, your Hilux will be adventure-ready in no time.
✅ Pro Tip: Pair this kit with a DC-DC charger and solar panel setup for the ultimate off-grid Hilux build.
