Recommended Wiring for DC to DC Charger and Wireless Brake Controller Compatiblility

Updated 02/04/2019 | Published 02/01/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 25 Amp

(88)

$484.59

Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot

(328)

$3.66

Bulldog Winch Quick-Connect Set for Powersports w/Dust Cover - 6 AWG

(30)

$20.17

Replacement Bulldog Winch Quick-Connect Terminals - 50-amp x 10/12 AWG - Qty 1 Pair

$5.55

Question:

I would like to install the Redarc BCDC in a camping trailer to do a better job of charging the AGM trailer battery while driving. The trailer also has a Prodigy wireless brake controller. I have run into the following problem: if the trailer battery is sufficiently discharged that the charger unit wants to go to bulk stage, it will put 20A into the battery, and draw about 25A from the 7 pin connector. However, the brake controller shuts off 12v to the trailer if current drain exceeds 20A. A problem. Solutions I can see are to 1 run 12v/ground from the 7 pin cable that goes INTO the brake controller, directly to the CTek in parallel with 12v to the brake controller 2 run separate wires from the tow vehicle, probably using Anderson connectors, directly to the BCDC. I am wondering if there would be a problem with solution 1 pulling too much current from the tow vehicle 7 pin connector 25A for the charger + 9A for full on brakes, 34A total, hence the thought of solution 2. Tow vehicle is a Highlander Hybrid, so no problem with sourcing the current.

asked by: Craig B

Expert Reply:

The Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Trailer Brake Controller works as a 12V pass through so you will get the same voltage but your are correct about the amperage. The Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1225D could absolutely pull more amperage than what the Prodigy will allow through so you could splice into your wiring prior to the controller, but that isn't my recommendation.

The best work around to ensure you have the battery charging you desire is to use the Winch Quick Connects # BDW20047 and Replacement Bulldog Winch Quick-Connect Terminals # BDW20160 along with the Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot # 10-2-1. This will give you the direct connection you need and the quick connections to make that connection easy. This will ensure you are getting the power you need for both your brake controller and your DC to DC battery charger to function correctly at the same time.

expert reply by: Jason S