When Running Battery Charge Wire on Trailer is a Ground Wire Needed as Well
Question:
I have read varying ideas about the negative connection- do I need to run a separate ground from the tow vehicle to trailer? I plan on running 2 ga wire from the positive battery terminal to a Pollak connector on rear of truck, then to Pollak connector on trailer. Thanks.
asked by: Tom T
Helpful Expert Reply:
If you are running a 12 volt power line to the battery of your trailer there would be no need to run a separate ground wire. You are charging the battery of the trailer and not operating an accessory with that line so it would not need to have a ground to the battery as well. Similar to an alternator charge wire on a vehicle. There isn't a ground wire ran from the alternator to the battery as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Trailer Breakaway Kit Battery Charger
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Battery Charger
- Hopkins
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Vampire Draw on Trailer Breakaway Kit Battery Charger
- Video: Hopkins Trailer Breakaway Kit 20011 Review
- Video: Hopkins Trailer Breakaway Kit Battery Charger Installation
- Shop: Trailer Breakaway Kit Battery Charger
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Charging a Trailer Breakaway System Battery Using the 12 Volt Circuit on a 7-Way Connector
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: How to Prevent Trailer Breakaway System Battery from Overcharging and Back Feeding Into Tow Vehicle
- Q&A: How to Charge a Trailer Battery Through a 7-Way Connector
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Q&A: Will the Hopkins Trailer Breakaway Battery Charger Work for an Auxiliary Battery on a Trailer
- Q&A: Blue Ox Weight Distribution System with Higher Tongue Weight Rating that 1,700 lb Reese
- Q&A: How Does the Hopkins Wiring Kit and The Tekonsha T-One Harness Install Together
- Article: Testing Breakaway Systems
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)