Is Diode Needed When Using the Trailer Breakaway Kit Battery Charger # 20011

Updated 07/26/2017 | Published 07/25/2017

Question:

Need technical advice: I have a 2008 Chevy Express Van with factory/dealer hitch installed with 7 blade trailer plug. 1 Do I need a Diode RM-690 to prevent back feed from the trailer Odyssey winch battery PC680 to the Chevy Van Odyssey battery 78-PC1500? I will be running my enclosed trailer interior led lights from the winch battery only. 2 Since I do some long trips, I am considering a brake away battery charger #20011. Do I need to use a Diode RM-690 for the brake away battery with the battery charger #20011? If so, where should the Diode be located in a wiring diagram for the brake away battery? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Daniel S

Expert Reply:

If you wanted to prevent the trailer back feeding to the vehicle battery a diode like the part # RM-690 would be what you need.

If instead you install the part # 20011 you would not need to install a diode to prevent the battery from back feeding.

expert reply by: Jameson C