Is Relay Kit Needed for BCDC Installation if Ignition is Already Ran to BCDC on Trailer

Updated 03/31/2020 | Published 03/30/2020

Products Featured in This Question

60-Amp Relay Kit for Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger

(5)

$125.00

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

(87)

$620.00

Question:

I have a 2019 Silverado with dual alternators, I have a 10ga ignition wire running all the to the BCDC 40amp charger in the trailer. The tow vehicle battery cables are 4 gage and run the trailer with an Anderson plug for a disconnect.. there is a separate disconnect plug for the ignition wire . Having the ignition wire running all the way back to the BCDC eliminates the need for the 331-RK1260 correct? Or is there something about this unit that I don’t understand?

asked by: Randy W

Expert Reply:

If you have an ignition wire running from your 40 Amp BCDC # 331-BCDC1240D then the 60-Amp Relay Kit # 331-RK1260 isn't needed. There just has to be enough power on that wire to reach back to the BCDC so it can read the alternator properly. Basically if the BCDC is reading everything properly then you have enough power. Otherwise you need the relay kit.

If you were having a problem running the ignition wire all the way to the BCDC then that's when the relay kit would be used.

expert reply by: Jon G