Parts Needed to Allow Tow Vehicle Battery to Charge Trailer Battery While Driving

Question:

Hi, I saw the video on the above subject. My question is once Ive tapped into an ignition fuse line on my 2015 f150. And installed the isolator relay can I then run a 10 g line to my in bed 5th wheel harness and replace the original charge wire with the new one.. I just dont get sufficient amps to my battery from the factory setup. This seems to be the easiest way to get more juice to the battery during travel. Thanks... corey. PS. Im using a fifthwheel harness I purchased from you guys 4 years ago.

asked by: Corey H

Expert Reply:

Your tow package would already use a 12 gauge wire, so going up to a 10 gauge honestly isn't going to gain you much. Installing a battery isolator solenoid is a smart idea, though. It will prevent the battery on the towed vehicle from drawing on the tow vehicle battery when the tow vehicle's ignition in shut off.

You could install a DC to DC charger like the Redarc # RED46FR to keep your battery charged during travel. The charger will accept input directly from the alternator or through an islolator, and a solar panel if you wish such as # 34273836.

Stopping every 2-3 hours during travel and running the vehicle for a few minutes would be the easiest way to keep that battery topped off so that it's ready to go once you arrive at your destination.

I've linked you to a help article that provides more information about keeping a battery charged while towing.

expert reply by: Mike L