Can a Trailer Battery Be Charged through 12 Volt Circuit on Hopkins Coiled 7-Way to 6-Way Adapter

Question:

Do Hopkins Trailer Wiring Adapters allow for the trailer battery to be charged via the center 12v post?

asked by: Jack F

Expert Reply:

Trailer wiring on a vehicle or trailer can provide a maintenance charge only to a 12 volt battery (if it is a regular car type of battery) but the wiring is not heavy enough, nor are most vehicle alternators strong enough, to push back the amperage required to charge up a 12 volt battery. If it is a small breakaway battery then it can charge it up.

So as long as the 12 volt circuit is working on the tow vehicle and the matching 12 volt circuit on the trailer side is connected to the positive battery terminal you can get a maintenance charge on a large 12 volt battery or charge up a small 12 volt battery like those found in breakaway systems.

expert reply by: Michael H