Posted 2010-11-27 7:54 AM (#127490) Subject: Adding auxillary batteries to my trailer
Member
Posts: 16
Location: braham,mn
I am adding two deep cycle 12V batteries to my trailer & cant' find a clear answer on how to connect to the trailer wiring. I do have the "+ feed" charging the emergency brake battery, do I simply run a "pig-tail" from this wire to my batteris & then another spliced back into to my interior lights (and eventually a seperate run to a 12V fuse block for more accesories) We would like to have 12V power without being connected to the tow vehicle.
Posted 2010-11-27 9:54 AM (#127497 - in reply to #127490) Subject: RE: Adding auxillary batteries to my trailer
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
You will want to run a heavy guage B+ wire to a fuse box. From this distribution point, your seperate circuits will start. You will need a master fuse that matches the AWG B+ feed from the batteries. The present trailer lighting circuits will be terminated at this power supply.
If you want your power supply to be separate from the truck, you will need an independent charging system. You can install a simple automotive battery charger, one that will have to be monitored so it doesn't overcharge, or better units that have built in float circuits for proper battery maintenance.
A battery powered 12V system is inexpensive and easy to install. If your needs later include shore 110V AC power, this part of your system can be fed by a converter and you only have to change the power center's feed source.
Posted 2010-11-27 10:37 AM (#127499 - in reply to #127490) Subject: RE: Adding auxillary batteries to my trailer
Expert
Posts: 2453
Location: Northern Utah
The water heaters that I'e had, usually had 3 valves. One in front of and one behind the water heater to isolate the water heater and 3rd valve to drain the water heater.