Charging Time for Trailer Battery Used to Power Electric Tongue Jack

Updated 08/28/2017 | Published 08/25/2017

Question:

How long does it take to charge up so I can work the electric jack lift. I unhooked the positive of the battery before I unhooked the trailer now I think the battery is dead

asked by: Judith M

Expert Reply:

A trailer-mounted battery that is used to operate a powered tongue jack could require an overnight charge on a shore-power charger like the CTEK # CTEK56353 if it has been fully depleted. Exact time depends on the battery capacity, ambient temperature and other factors.

The 12V power feed on a trailer 7-way connector delivers enough current to maintain a charged battery but not enough to re-charge one that has become depleted. For that you need a shore-power charger powered on AC current. Once fully charged the 7-way 12V feed will keep the battery topped off as you drive.

Note that on jacks with built-in lights the lights may operate even if the battery has only a partial charge but the jack motor may not function until the battery has a full charge.

expert reply by: Adam R