Is DC to DC Charger Required to Protect 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee From Trailer Battery Bank

Question:

I have a 2019 Jeep GC v8 with hemi and hd suspension and factory tow package towing a 2021 Tab 320S Boondock. I have installed two 12V 105Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 Batteries. I have a 105 watt solar panel on roof of trailer with a solar controller inside also. Do I need a DC to DC charger as well? I wasn’t sure about any impacts to Jeep’s alternator. Thank you.

asked by: Kelly R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The alternator on your 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be just fine and will provide a trickle charge to the battery bank on your trailer, but if you're wanting your Jeep battery to actually charge the bank on your trailer then you will need a DC to DC charging setup and for that I recommend the Redarc BCDC:

- 40 Amp Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1240D

I like this solution because it's smart enough to adjust the charge power per battery bank and battery type, plus it has a connection for solar panels so they can be integrated together (although you'll need to ditch your current solar panel controller). If you choose to go this route be sure to use these heavy duty fuses # 331-FK60 as well as thick wiring since this will be focused on pushing 12V power through for charging.

I've attached a review video of this charger for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G