Can a 12 Volt Battery on a Dump Trailer be Charged from a 7-Way Trailer Connector

Updated 04/19/2016 | Published 04/18/2016

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Question:

How many amps can the 12 volt battery power lug handle. I have a dump trailer with a 12 volt battery in it to dump gravel. Can I use this lug to charge the battery while driving or will it keep blowing fuses?? The vehicle is a 2004 dodge diesel.

asked by: Terry B

Expert Reply:

The 12 volt circuit on most 7-Way trailer connectors is fused at 30 amps/12 volts. At best it can provide a maintenance charge to a trailer mounted battery. But it cannot charge up a battery; at least not one that is the size of the battery used to operate functions on a dump trailer. Most vehicle alternators are not strong enough and the tow package wiring not large enough for enough amperage to get back to the battery.

I recommend using an AC charger when you can to charge and recondition the battery on the trailer. Many of us here use charger # CTEK56353 and it works great! I have linked a video review for you.

expert reply by: Michael H