Installing DC Power And Power Inverter To Cargo Trailer
Question:
I have a 6x10 cargo trailer that I’d like to do a few things to. I’ve researched on here, but haven’t found exactly what I’m looking for. First, I would like to add 110V hookups to the trailer so that I can connect to shore power and run a small floor A/C unit, maybe a tiny space heater, LED lighting internal and external, and charge things such as cell phones. Also, there is a possibility I could be using a generator and not a standard hookup at a camp. Second, If I go the first route, I’m not sure this step would be necessary, but I’d want to add a 12V car battery to the trailer. I know that I’d possibly need the Isolation Solenoid TR118665 to prevent draining my truck battery when off and that the battery itself will not charge from my truck connection, only maintain. To charge the battery, I would need something like CTEK56353. With that though, I’d need “shore” power to charge the battery, is there anything out there that will charge the battery while connected to the vehicle? I read that someone needed a 40amp circuit breaker PK54540, would I need this? If I go the first route, I would not need the second option, correct? What all would I need for the first option? Thank you.
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
For DC electricity, I can help you out. You can run a 10 gauge wire like # 10-1-1 sold by the foot from a 6-way or 7-way connection from the 12V to a deep cycle 12V battery and then run the battery to a ground on the trailer. You can use a solenoid like # PK5231201 in your tow vehicle if you want to ensure you don't drain the vehicle battery when your truck isn't running. This will isolate the deep cycle 12V trailer battery.
To charge your battery, you can use a Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC # 331-BCDC1240D. This also gives you the option of using a solar panel for charging.
From your battery you can run a power inverter like # WC3720 to run your accessories. If you use the 12V power plug, you can use the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps # RM-9332. This will give you all of the accessory options you need for small AC applications or you can use DC accessories from fans like # PTW1658 to a heater/fan/light like # PTW5009.
If you are looking for AC "shoreline" wiring directly, you will need to talk with a trailer dealership or electrician.
Products Referenced in This Question
Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 40 Amp
- Battery Charger
- Battery Charger
- RV/Camper
- Trailer
- 200 Ah
- Charges/Maintains
- DC to DC
- 12V
- Solar Panels to Auxiliary Battery
- Vehicle Battery to Auxiliary Battery
- Redarc
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Starter Solenoid - SPST - 12 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Grounded
- Accessories and Parts
- Battery Boxes
- Switches and Solenoids
- 100 Amp
- Pollak
more information >
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