Towing a Ford Edge with a Blu Ox Patriot Brake System Causes Battery Drain

Question:

I have a Tuscany Motor Home built on a Freighliner chassis. Im towing a Ford Edge 2014 with a BLue Ox brake system Depending how many times I have to brake I drain the Suv battery in 1.5 to 3 hours. 1-question: can we eliminate that problem by removing fuses in the SUV. The SUV has to be in accessories mode according to Ford manual 2-question: I know that I can install a battery charger in the SUV and use the 7 pin connector from the RV,but Ive checked the 7 pins connector and I don't have juice on the pin that should supply the 12 volt for the charger. Do I have to install a fuse somewhere in the RV to get juice on that pin Big thanks

asked by: Marc L

Helpful Expert Reply:

That is a very short time to drain the battery. I took a look at the owner's manual for a 2014 Ford Edge and it does say that leaving the key in that position will drain the battery, so it is very odd that would be a requirement from Ford. Still, to answer your second question first, for some cars there will always be power at the 12V circuit and others it does not. To answer the first question, yes, you can remove the fuses that the accessories are draining the power from or use a fuse bypass such as # RM76511.

I cannot guarantee you this will eliminate the problem, but it should certainly help. You can also try starting the vehicle at more regular intervals than every six hours like Ford recommends for you.

I've added links to a couple videos on the fuse bypass for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S