Installing DC Power And Power Inverter To Cargo Trailer
Question:
I have a 6x10 cargo trailer that I’d like to do a few things to. I’ve researched on here, but haven’t found exactly what I’m looking for. First, I would like to add 110V hookups to the trailer so that I can connect to shore power and run a small floor A/C unit, maybe a tiny space heater, LED lighting internal and external, and charge things such as cell phones. Also, there is a possibility I could be using a generator and not a standard hookup at a camp. Second, If I go the first route, I’m not sure this step would be necessary, but I’d want to add a 12V car battery to the trailer. I know that I’d possibly need the Isolation Solenoid TR118665 to prevent draining my truck battery when off and that the battery itself will not charge from my truck connection, only maintain. To charge the battery, I would need something like CTEK56353. With that though, I’d need “shore” power to charge the battery, is there anything out there that will charge the battery while connected to the vehicle? I read that someone needed a 40amp circuit breaker PK54540, would I need this? If I go the first route, I would not need the second option, correct? What all would I need for the first option? Thank you.
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
For DC electricity, I can help you out. You can run a 10 gauge wire like # 10-1-1 sold by the foot from a 6-way or 7-way connection from the 12V to a deep cycle 12V battery and then run the battery to a ground on the trailer. You can use a solenoid like # PK5231201 in your tow vehicle if you want to ensure you don't drain the vehicle battery when your truck isn't running. This will isolate the deep cycle 12V trailer battery.
To charge your battery, you can use a Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC # 331-BCDC1240D. This also gives you the option of using a solar panel for charging.
From your battery you can run a power inverter like # WC3720 to run your accessories. If you use the 12V power plug, you can use the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps # RM-9332. This will give you all of the accessory options you need for small AC applications or you can use DC accessories from fans like # PTW1658 to a heater/fan/light like # PTW5009.
If you are looking for AC "shoreline" wiring directly, you will need to talk with a trailer dealership or electrician.
Products Referenced in This Question
Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 40 Amp
- Battery Charger
- Battery Charger
- RV/Camper
- Trailer
- 200 Ah
- Charges/Maintains
- 12V
- Solar Panels to Auxiliary Battery
- Vehicle Battery to Auxiliary Battery
- Redarc
more information >
Wagan Mobile Power Inverter - AC Outlet and USB Port - 1,000 Watts
- 12V Power Accessories
- Power Inverter
- 3 AC Outlets
- 2 USB Outlets
- 1000 Watts
- Wagan
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Starter Solenoid - SPST - 12 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Grounded
- Accessories and Parts
- Battery Boxes
- Switches and Solenoids
- 100 Amp
- Pollak
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: How To Install a 30 Amp Service on an Enclosed Cargo Trailer
- Shop: Progressive Dynamics 4100 Series RV Converter w/ Charge Wizard and AC/DC Distribution Panel - 35 Amp
- Shop: RV Interior Lighting
- Shop: RV Exterior Lighting
- Q&A: Does The AC Distribution Panel Of The PD4135K Power Center Need To Be Ground To The RV Chassis
- Shop: Towing Mirrors
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: RV Power Inlets
- Shop: Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Tire with 15" Hi-Spec Aluminum Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2" - LR E
- Shop: Opti-Brite 12V/24V LED Dome Light for Refrigerated Trucks and Trailers - 990 Lumens - Clear Lens
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: MORryde RV Cargo Sliding Tray - 72" x 20" - 2 Way Slide - 80 Percent Extension - 500 lbs
- Shop: Starter Solenoid - SPST - 12 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Grounded
- Q&A: Parts Needed and Wiring Methods for Adding 110 and 12 Volt Power and Accessories to a Trailer
- Q&A: How to Hook a Cargo Trailer Up to Shore Power
- Search Results: shore power
- Shop: Double Rocker Switch - On/Off - Black
- Search Results: 30 amp breaker
- Search Results: rocker switch
- Q&A: Best Way To Power an Enclosed Travel Trailer
- Search Results: circuit breaker
- Q&A: Wiring Diagram for the Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center part # PD4135K
- Search Results: can lights
- Search Results: atwood switch
- Search Results: lights
- Video: Lionshead Tires and Wheels LHCS108-SI60C Review
- Q&A: How to Attach E-Track to Enclosed Trailer Wall
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Video: K Source Custom Towing Mirrors - Full Replacement Mirror - KS62147-48G Review
on Accessories and Parts
