Why Trailer Breakaway Systems Need Their Own Dedicated Battery
Updated 04/22/2020 | Published 04/21/2020
Question:
Can you upgrade the battery to a full size car battery so a person could also run auxiliary items in the trailer, ie lights, etc. Or is there a way to charge an additional battery using the 7 pin trailer connector?
asked by: Andrew D
Expert Reply:
Breakaway batteries shouldn't power other accessories even if the battery is larger. You really need the breakaway battery to be topped off at all times in case you need it. If you were to power other accessories you run risk of it being discharged in an emergency and it not able to work like it needs to.
Typically people run two batteries for this. The breakaway like the # 20099 and then a deep cycle battery for everything else. Topping off the batteries with the 7-way circuit is possible still as you'd basically just run the 12 volt circuit to both batteries.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 2,000-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 7" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 7" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 2,000 lbs to 2,200 lbs
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Search Results: brake wire
- Shop: Bright Way Push-to-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with 1-Amp Charger and 5 Ah Battery - Top Load
- Q&A: Wiring Needed To Tow a Trailer With Brakes With a 2025 Ford Ranger no Tow Package
- Video: The Low-Down on the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness
- Video: Comprehensive Review: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness
- Q&A: Can Trailer Breakaway Kit be Used without a Battery
- Q&A: Where is Brake Controller Wiring on 2023 Ford Ranger
- Q&A: Why is 10 or 12 Gauge Wire Recommended for Electric Brake Assemblies
- Q&A: Wire Recommendation for Rewiring Utility Trailer with Brakes
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Shop: Replacement Trailer Wheel Bearing - L44649 - Qty 1
- Shop: Grease Seals - Double Lip - I.D. 1.500" / O.D. 1.987" - EZ Lube 2K to 2.5K Axles - Qty 2
- Q&A: Is a Gap Between a Trailer Brake Backing Plate and Drum Normal
- Q&A: Trailers Backing Plate Is Not The Same Distance From The Drum Front And Rear
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Review RED24FR
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
on Trailer Breakaway Kit
