Does Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System Require Connection To Vehicle Battery

Updated 08/19/2020 | Published 08/18/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

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$1505.17

Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way to 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat

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$34.94

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1199)

$43.49

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Motorhomes

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$67.45

12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

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$40.45

Question:

Does the cars battery need to be connected in order for the unit to work? If I leave the battery connected and in accessory the battery dies. I’ve been using a power pack but do not feel the brakes working

asked by: Ron W

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System - Proportional # BLU37TR needs power for proper function, so it does require a direct connection to your battery which isn't an issue on your 2015 Ford Flex. Some vehicle require a separate connection to the vehicle using # RM-9332 to avoid the other features drawing power. The Patriot has its own battery for emergency use only so you still need a power supply.

Since you are worried about draining your battery, I recommend you use the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25 to allow the motorhome to charge the vehicle battery while it is being towed. This connects to the 12v power pin on your motorhome 7-way. If your motorhome doesn't have that power, then I recommend using the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Motorhomes # RM-156-75 and if you need the 7-way use # C57672 as an adapter.

expert reply by: Jason S