When Running Battery Charge Wire on Trailer is a Ground Wire Needed as Well

Published 08/19/2016

Question:

I have read varying ideas about the negative connection- do I need to run a separate ground from the tow vehicle to trailer? I plan on running 2 ga wire from the positive battery terminal to a Pollak connector on rear of truck, then to Pollak connector on trailer. Thanks.

asked by: Tom T

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you are running a 12 volt power line to the battery of your trailer there would be no need to run a separate ground wire. You are charging the battery of the trailer and not operating an accessory with that line so it would not need to have a ground to the battery as well. Similar to an alternator charge wire on a vehicle. There isn't a ground wire ran from the alternator to the battery as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C