Adding a Trailer Battery to an Enclosed Cargo Trailer
Updated 07/01/2015 | Published 06/29/2015
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I am redoing a 21 ft enclosed cargo trailer. I am rewiring 120 volt and 12 volt system. I am trying to figure what I need so that when my trailer is unhooked from vehicle I can still use the 12 volt lights etc what do I need to do this from the new junction box I am getting your part 38656 to the battery I will be installing inside the trailer so I can use with or without tow vehicle. I am ready to place my order for all that I need except for that, can you help or tseer to some one who can.Thank you.
asked by: Mike
Helpful Expert Reply:
Start with mounting a battery. Since the trailer is enclosed, it would be a good idea to mount it on the trailer frame using a battery box like # 329-HM318BKS. Next, you will need to have the right kind of connectors on the truck and trailer. I would use a 7-Way RV style if you do not already have them on the truck and trailer.
There is a 12 volt circuit on a 7-Way. You can run a wire from the 12 volt circuit on the trailer side connector to the positive battery terminal. The battery should be grounded to the trailer frame. The 12 volt hot lead will maintain the trailer battery, though it will not be able to fully charge it.
With the battery installed, you will want to wire the lights to it. The lights will have a power wire and a ground. The power wires for the lights is currently connected to the 12 volt circuit from the trailer connector. You will need to instead route the trailer light power wires to a switch, like # BL0108-00, using a spade terminal. Using another spade terminal, connect a length of wire to the positive battery terminal. Hit the switch and the lights will turn on, running off of the trailer battery.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 12-10 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Yellow - Qty 10
- Wiring
- Wire Connectors
- Butt Connectors
- 10 Gauge
- 12 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer snow chains
- Search Results: tire chains
- Search Results: st205 75r15
- Shop: Tire Chains
- Video: Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains w Cams Review
- Shop: Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains w/ Cams for Wide Base Tires - Ladder Pattern - V-Bar Link - 1 Pair
- Shop: Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains w Cams - Ladder Pattern - V Bar Links - Assisted Tensioning - 1 Pair
- Shop: Titan Chain Multi-Arm Rubber Tire Chain Adjuster for Light Trucks - 1 Pair
- Shop: Titan Chain Multi-Arm Rubber Tire Chain Adjuster for Heavy Trucks - 1 Pair
- Shop: Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains for Wide Base and Dual Tires - Ladder Pattern - Twist Link - 1 Axle Set
- Shop: Titan Chain Tire Chains w Cams - Wide Base and Dual Tires - Ladder Pattern - Twist Link - 1 Axle Set
- Shop: Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains for Wide Base Tires - Ladder Pattern - Square Link - 1 Pair
- Q&A: How to Wire 12V Battery in Enclosed Trailer to Power Trailer Lights Independent of 7-Way Connection
- Q&A: Adding a Battery on an Enclosed Trailer to Power Interior Lights
- Q&A: Can Tire Chains Be Used On Trailer Tires?
- Q&A: Recommended Tire Chains For A Tandem Axle Enclosed Trailer
- Article: How to Wire an Electric Winch
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Search Results: battery
- Video: Review of the Bulldog Winch Trailer Winch
- Video: A Closer Look at the Fulton F2 Fully Enclosed Trailer Winch with Adjustable Handle
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Adding a Battery and Wiring to a Non-Powered Trailer to Add Interior Lights to an Enclosed Trailer
- Q&A: Battery Box that Can Fit Trailer Frame
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Instructions to Wire a Trailer for Electric Brakes
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers