Recommended Battery Management System and Charger for Small Military Trailer

Question:

We pull a military trailer and Id like to add a 12v deep cycle battery to the setup that can be charged while trailer is connected to truck with 7 pin connector. Total newbie to electrical...we have a Jackery and 100 watt panel and would like to use this also. Plans are to add a 12v refrigerator. Thanks

asked by: Nick K

Helpful Expert Reply:

It sounds like adding Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 25 Amp
Item # 331-BCDC1225D to your trailer would be a great solution. You should already be setup to charge the battery via the tow vehicle's 7 way connector, but the BCDC provides you with a solution to tie in your 100w solar panel and keep your auxiliary battery charged and maintained. It will also let you connect a fridge to the system to draw power from both the panels and battery. The BCDC also has a smart charge feature and will draw power primarily from the solar panels before the battery, so it's great for something like a military style camper that won't have a power distribution box and will be used mostly "off-grid". This system works with traditional lead acid, gel, calcium, and absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries, as well as lithium ion batteries.

To install this system I recommend adding the 40-Amp MIDI Fuse Kit for Redarc In-Vehicle 25-Amp BCDC Battery Charger # 331-FK40, which comes with fuses and ring terminals to make installation cleaner.

I've linked a short video review of this for you to check out, but it sounds like this would be a great addition to your trailer to help keep your new battery charged via both the 7 way and the solar system.

expert reply by: Erik B