Should I Install a Relay To Cut Power To Trailer Battery Charge on 7-Way with Vehicle Off
Question:
I am nearly done installing a universal 7-pin wiring system on my 2010 Toyota Highlander. It has occurred to me that the way this is set up, the high amperage lead from the battery to the trailer is not switched in any way. It seems to me, that this could cause issues with killing the cars battery if items are being used in the trailer while connected to the car and the trailers battery is not fully charged. Would you recommend a relay on this circuit that is tied to the cars ignition for on/off control?
asked by: Homer S
Expert Reply:
The battery charge line circuit is not keyed in many vehicles from the factory meaning it has constant power. If you wish to install a simple isolator then you can do so but a better option is the Redarc Smart Start Battery Isolator with Wiring Kit part # 331-SBI12KIT which actually monitors the status of the start battery and uses that to determine when it should charge the aux battery. It can also pull power from the aux battery to charge the start if something goes wrong. This is a must have if you boondock as a dead battery could spell disaster.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Smart Start Battery Isolator with Wiring Kit - 12 Volt - 100 Amp
- Battery Charger
- Battery Isolators
- 12V
- Vehicle Battery to Auxiliary Battery
- Redarc
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Instructions for TorkLift HiddenPower Under-Vehicle Battery Mount TLA7726 for a 2016 Ford F-150
- Q&A: Will TorkLift HiddenPower Battery Mount Hold Group 31 Battery?
- Q&A: Could the TorkLift HiddenPower Under-Vehicle Battery Mount Attach to Trailer Frame
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Q&A: Why is Disconnecting The Battery Required When Flat Towing a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
- Q&A: Compatible Base Plates For A 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 With A Demco Excali-Bar III Tow Bar
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2013 Cadillac SRX
- Q&A: Should Arms on Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar Automatically Lock When Pulling Forward
- Article: How to Choose a High-Low Adapter
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty vs Tow-Pro Elite
- Article: Wiring a Tow Vehicle to Tow a Dinghy
- Article: How to Choose a Bike Rack for an SUV or Crossover