Will Trailer Breakaway Battery Charge Auxiliary Battery

Question

Question:

We had issue with Curt C52044 not charging battery on a enclosed trailer. We use the same battery to light the trailer 2X LED lights UCL59CB which is what drained the battery. We replaced the battery, and have had 7 way plugged into vehicle for 36 hours and the new battery has also not charged. Is the charger toast on the Curt C52044 or does the truck/vehicle have to be running for the charger to function? Whats wrong with our logic? This is Troop 217 Norman Ok., We use this trailer 1-2 a month and the lights are terrific for the boys searching the trailer at night. Should we add solar charger instead of counting on vehicle recharging battery? Thanks! In the picture you can see the two lights, the Curt Battery Breakaway box in the floor, and the distribution panel on the wall.

asked by: Larry C

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Expert Reply:

So it sounds like you are trying to use the Curt Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger # C52044 to charge an auxiliary battery on your enclosed trailer to power lights, and it makes sense that this would not work. This kit is only designed for breakaway batteries, and has a small 5-amp hour battery capacity, which is probably dead, as I'm guessing you are not seeing any LED indicators (either red or green) illuminated. For everybody's safety, breakaway kits - including their battery and charger - should only be used for their intended purpose, which is to activate the trailer brakes in event of emergency.

You were right on the money in regards to a solar charger as it is a very simple solution for your auxiliary 12 volt battery, particularly as you are only using it every couple weeks or or so. The 2.5-Watt Solar Battery Charger # PTW2997 should be all you need in order to get your aux battery going every so often.

I have added links to a couple video reviews of this charger for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S

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