Diagram to Use for Wiring Trailer Batteries in Parallel

Question:

I have a slide in camper on my 2002 F250 that currently has 1 house battery. I would like to add a second battery. The location of the current battery is in the battery box on the drivers rear side of the camper. There is available space for a second battery where the generator would go inside the back passengers side compartment box. The distance between the two batteries will be about 5 or 6 feet. What is the best way to connect the batteries in parallel? Do I have to connect the new battery to anything besides the existing battery? Thank you.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

I attached a picture that details how to wire up two batteries in parallel. The new battery will connect to the old battery as well as to either the ground of the trailer or the main feed wire for the trailer's power. You'll need heavier gauge wire ran between the batteries. Typically 4 or 6 AWG is used for this.

expert reply by: Jameson C