Connecting Deep Cycle Battery to Enclosed Trailer to Power Interior Lights

Updated 02/20/2019 | Published 02/19/2019

Question:

Hello, Im interested in connecting my current deep-cycle battery which powers a winch inside my enclosed race trailer to also power the 12v aux circuits inside when disconnect from the tow vehicle. In lieu of simply wiring the +12 from the 7-pin connector and connecting ground, what else do I need to look into? My vehicle is a 2018 F-150, which already contains an battery isolation circuit, so I dont have to worry about drain to and from the vehicle. I have a shore-power charger for re-charging and the tow vehicle would only be for maintenance charging. The only issue that I see is that now the 7-pin harness will be hot across pins 1 and 4. Is there any way around this?

asked by: Jay

Expert Reply:

If you have 12 volt lights in your trailer that you are wanting to power with your trailer's battery all you need to do is run the power and ground to the battery. When your tow vehicle is connected they will either be powered by the 12 volt circuit of the tow vehicle or they will not be affected if the switches are off. This wouldn't have any more effect on your trailer 7-way than what you currently have hooked up.

expert reply by: Jameson C