Does the Tow Ready Wiring Harness # 118480 Have to Be Run to Vehicle Battery

Question:

Instead of running a wire all the way up front to the battery can it be connected to the 12v output in the back cargo area instead?

asked by: Brad

Expert Reply:

Powered trailer wiring harnesses like the Tow Ready part # 118480 that you referenced have to have the battery wire run all the way to the positive post of the vehicle battery. The reason for this is so that the taillights of the trailer won't be putting any amperage draw on the delicate taillight wiring of the vehicle. All of the amperage would be drawn from the battery instead. If you were to power the unit from a 12 volt source like what you mentioned you would be defeating the circuit protection and voiding the warranty so I can't recommend you do that.

I did attach a help article that details routing the power wire from the rear of a vehicle to the front for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C