Will a 130 Amp Alternator on a 2000 Ford F-150 Damage the Battery Isolation Solenoid

Question:

I have a 130 amp alternator on my 2000 ford pickup with factory trailer wiring and relays. This delivers power to my 30 amp camper system. What capacity isolator/relay do I need, that will not be destroyed by surges from the alternator if they should occur. THANKS

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

If your camper is drawing power from your 2000 Ford F-150 using the trailer connector, then a surge from your 130 amp alternator will not be an issue. The 12-volt power lead going to your trailer connector does not draw power directly from your alternator.

The Battery Isolation Solenoid, # PK5231201, is designed to shut off the 12-volt feed from your truck battery to 12-volt power sources on your trailer when the ignition is turned off.

This unit is designed for vehicles that have constant 12-volt power at the trailer connector, even when the vehicle is off, and the key is removed. If your truck does not have 12-volt power when your truck is turned off, then this solenoid is not needed. You can test if you have constant power by using a circuit tester, like part # PTW2993, to test the pin on your trailer connector for constant power when your truck is off.

This unit should be installed in-line with the 12-volt power lead going to the trailer connector and one more wire will need to be ran to a 12-volt ignition source on your truck which will act as a switch to engage/disengage the 12-volt feed going to the trailer.

The only amperage draw that you will need to worry about is if something is connected to the 12-volt power lead on your trailer connector that would draw more than 80 amps.

expert reply by: John H