Why Couldn't Charge Wire Allow Flat Towed Vehicle To Leave Battery Connected
Question:
Vehicle in question: 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali HD 4x4 w/ 2 spd transfer case with Ninch position and 4wd low Everywhere i read it states that you must remove the negative battery cable to avoid damage to the steering if steering is locked and to prevent the battery from going dead. When my ignition is in the Accinch position as recommended, my steering is NOT locked and I believe there are minimal items drawing power stereo, basic dash function, etc. That being said, I dont want to disconnect the batteries and dont see why i cant just connect a charge wire from the motorhome to the battery to keep it charged up. Am i missing something? is there some other reason why i need to disconnect my battery when flat towing or is this just the manufacture being extra cautious to avoid uneducated people from having issues resulting in additional warranty claims?
asked by: Russ Y
Expert Reply:
When it comes to flat towing procedures we really can't recommend against anything that the manufacturer recommends.
You are on the right track with why the battery has to be disconnected. The steering wheel needs to be unlocked and in order to do that the key must be on. If the keys on the battery will drain so that's why it has to be disconnected. In the ACC position certain accessories can be used like windshield wipers, radio and the instrument panel.
There's a chance running a power wire to the battery would offset the drain that the ACC would put on it, but that's hard to say and depends on a few things like the gauge of wire used for that circuit on the tow vehicle side and the wiring on the towed vehicle side.
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Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount Style
- Telescoping
- Steel
- 6000 lbs
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Crossbar
- Fits Roadmaster Base Plates - Direct Connect
- Stores on RV
- Standard
- Roadmaster
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