What Gauge Wire Should be Used with Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger

Question:

I have a multi part question. For a 2017 Colorado, and installing a redarc bcdc1240d in the trailer, should I use 6guage or increase to a 4guage wire? Estimate about 18-20ft of run. Whats the difference/benefits between using an rk1260 relay and sbi12? What size wire does the rk1260 use? Sbi12? If they are less than 6 or 4 guage, wouldnt that negate using the larger wire to the trailer? What color are the power wires in and out of the units? Which fuses would I use for each? Benefits/disadvantages of the Anderson plug vs pollack between truck and trailer? Thanks

asked by: Mark B

Expert Reply:

Since the estimated length of the wire run you'll have with the part # 331-BCDC1240D is between 18 and 20 feet you'd want to use 4 gauge wire. If the run was less than 16 feet you could use 6 gauge.

The two relay kits you mentioned actually provide different purposes. The part # 331-SBI12KIT is for allowing the charger to charge two batteries in the best way possible whereas the # 331-RK1260 is for connecting to a vehicle that has a smart alternator. These come with all needed circuit protection as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C