Is A Battery Disconnect Switch Needed To Flat Tow A 2020 GMC 2500 HD?

Published 05/04/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

(372)

$237.95

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Straight Adapter Cord

(3187)

$205.66

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1201)

$45.66

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3330)

$575.00

Question:

I’m having a roadmaster tow bar and braking setup install on my 2020 GMC . I’m told by the shop,I do not need to disconnect the battery cable because they are installing a charger to keep the batteries charged, I’m trying to find out if this is correct . Thanks

asked by: Andy W

Expert Reply:

The purpose of a battery disconnect is not meant to keep the batteries charged but to protect certain onboard electronics. In your vehicle's case, is meant to keep the Electric Parking Brake disconnected.

If the battery is left connected, or the battery cable contacts the post, it could activate the electric parking brake and cause the vehicle to crash.

So I still recommend installing a battery disconnect switch on your 2020 GMC Sierra 2500.

The Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766 will work great for your truck. This kit includes a switch that will allow you to disconnect your battery from the convenience of your toad, and a corrosion-resistant, marine-grade solenoid with 200-amp constant duty, and 600-amp surge.

If the braking system you're using will use power from your toad while disconnected, then I also recommend installing a Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25, which will keep your battery charged while the battery is disconnected.

The only other components you'll need is, a base plate kit like # RM86FR, and a set of wiring # RM-152-98146-7.