Recommended Vehicle to Trailer Battery Charger with Solar Power Option

Question:

I want to charge my tear camper battery while towing with my Outback 2.5i, and I do not have a battery isolator solenoid installed. I asked whether I can use the CTEK battery charger CTEK56353 without an isolator, and was told I would not need the isolator. I see that the CTEL56353 has a 110v prong plug on one side, but I am looking to charge my camper battery during towing, when I wont have access to shore power. The battery in my camper is behind an access panel and is difficult to get to. My questions are: 1 is the CTEK56353 the correct battery charger to charge the camper trailer while towing camper connected to a 7-pin connector on the tow vehicle? 2 do you have a video showing how to set up and install the CTEK on the camper? 3 How do I set up the CTEK56353 so that it will stop charging from the tow vehicle battery when were not actually towing? In case I forget to disconnect it. 4 Where should I install the CTEK on the camper next to the battery? 5 We have a solar suitcase that plugs into the battery with a 12v cigarette lighter plug on the exterior of the camper when we are dry camping. Do I need to do anything with the CTEK with regard to the solar panel?

asked by: Sarah L

Expert Reply:

The CTEK battery charger # CTEK56353 is a great charger for when you have shore power, but will not work for a vehicle to trailer battery charger. To charge your trailer battery from your Outback 2.5i, you will need a different type of charger.

I personally prefer the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input # 331-BCDC1240D which allows you to charge your battery while your vehicle is not running. This unit has the ability to charge at 40 amps, use solar, and isolate your vehicle battery. It has the ability to work with a variety of battery types. We have a video of this installation which I've attached and the unit will install near the trailer battery. I've attached a wiring diagram for the Redarc system to assist and recommend using the 40-Amp MIDI Fuse Kit # 331-FK40 in either installation.

If you go with the CTEK # CTEK40186 then you will connect the positive wire your 12V accessory plug to the solar terminal on the charger. If you use the Redarc charger # 331-BCDC1225D then you will connect that 12V accessory power wire to the yellow wire of the charger. In either case the negative will go to ground on your trailer.

expert reply by: Jason S