Does 12-V Trailer Connector Circuit at 7-way on 2017 Ford F350 Remain Active With Vehicle Running

Published 01/24/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 40 Amp

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Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 50 Amp

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Question:

about the 12 vlt charge line on 2017 f350 or other fords you state that 12 vlt can be tested after you plug in a trailer and the brake peddle is pushed. does the 12 vlt remain on from that point on for charging a battery or to run interior lights???

asked by: Chris R

Expert Reply:

Once the trailer is plugged in and the brake pedal is depressed, the 12-volt power circuit on the trailer connector will become active, and can be used for whatever purposes you wish. Keep in mind that this circuit can maintain a trailer battery, but it won't have the available grunt to charge a discharged battery. To fully charge the battery while the tow vehicle is running, you'll need a DC to DC charger like # 331-BCDC1240D for a 40 amp or # 331-BCDC1250D
for a 50 amp charger. If you look at the article I've linked for you, you can see more information about using a DC to DC charger.

expert reply by: Mike L