Adapting Connector on Toyota Rav 4 to Provide Power to Trailer Battery

Question:

My 2010 Toyota RAV4 has a 4 pin hitch connector. I will be towing a very small camper, but will need someway to keep the trailer battery charged. What adaptors or extra parts will I need? Will I need extra wiring? My RAV4 is rated to tow 3500 lbs. My camper will only weigh 900lbs. Do you recommend a 7 pin connector? Thanks for any info. Ive never towed before.

asked by: RF B

Expert Reply:

Probably your best bet would be the 4 to 7-way Adapter, part # 37185. Your existing 4 pin connector would plug into the adapter. The black wire on the adapter would be extended with a length of 12 gauge wire (sold by the foot, part # 12-1-1). The wire would need to attach to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp inline circuit breaker, part # 9510.

For the trailer, you could use the Molded Trailer Wire Connector, part # H20044. The lighting circuits would be attached to the connector according to the color code listed in the product description, with the black wire attaching to the positive terminal of the trailer battery. Please be aware, that the wire color coding of the connector is NOT typical, so be sure to follow the color codes listed on the product description page. The combination wiring harness/junction box # HS381-9000 would make for a very tidy installation.

You will want to make sure to unplug the trailer when the vehicle is not running to avoid discharging the battery on your Toyota. You will also want to follow any recommendations from the manufacturer of the trailer battery regarding battery charging. Keep in mind that this auxiliary 12-volt circuit can maintain the battery, but will not be able to charge the battery once it is discharged. Shore power and a charger like the # CTEK56353 would be needed to charge the battery once it is completely drained.