Is A Battery Disconnect Needed If A Charge Line Kit Is Installed On The Towed Vehicle  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The battery disconnect requirement does not intertwine with any charge line kits and it's main purpose is to protect your vehicle's components. Typically this is to stop a system that would harm the transmission/drivetrain, lock up the wheels, etc. The purpose of a charge line kit like the Roadmaster # RM-156-25 is to keep your vehicle's battery charged while towing as most braking systems will pull power from the battery, which depending on the length of your trip could deplete the battery.

Based on your search history, you've been looking at flat towing equipment for a 2010 Chevy Colorado. If this is the case then you will not need a battery disconnect switch unless otherwise specified with in your owner's manual. You will however need a tow bar, base plate, tow bar wiring kit, braking system, and safety cables. If you haven't already purchased these items then I have the following recommendations for you listed below:

Tow Bar: Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-522. This tow bar features non-binding latches and a large hookup radius that makes connecting and disconnecting on any terrain a breeze.

Base Plate: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # 3122-1. This base plate kit is for the standard Colorado, if you have a Z71 or Extreme model then you will need a different kit. The removable arms of this base plate kit will provide a nice clean look when not in use.

Because the only style of base plate for a standard Colorado is a crossbar-style you'll also need the Replacement Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly for Roadmaster Motorhome Mounted Tow Bars # 910021-00. This item used to included with their tow bars, but is now an add-on item as Roadmaster transitions to only direct-connect style base plates.

Tow Bar Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit allows you to use your Chevrolet Colorado's tail lights and wiring system while preventing feedback from your RV. Since your Colorado's lighting system is separate you'll need a wiring converter # 118158 and 2 additional diodes # RM-792 if you want to retain separate turn and brake signals.

Braking System: Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # HM39524. This system offers intense, emergency braking or steady, smooth braking in a single portable system. Easily switch between proportional or full braking from the cab of your motorhome using the included remote. A charge line kit will be included with this braking system to keep your Colorado's battery charged while you tow.

Safety Cables: RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables # RM-643. The coiled design of these cables will help prevent them from dragging on the ground and being damaged.

You may also require a high/low adapter to keep your tow bar level between the motorhome and your Colorado. This does require some measuring on your part so I've attached our help article guide to help walk your through the steps of determining the correct rise/drop for your application.

expert reply by: Kevin C

0