How to Prevent Trailer Breakaway System Battery from Overcharging and Back Feeding Into Tow Vehicle

Updated 05/16/2022 | Published 05/13/2022

Question:

Can I wire in a diode to my trailer breakaway battery circuit on my tow vehicle? I have 3 trailers with electric brakes. After towing for a while it seems like the breakaway battery over charges then feeds back stray voltage that sets off warning lights on my tow vehicle. 2012 Chevy Silverado . Happens with all trailers usually after towing an hour or more

asked by: Tom R

Expert Reply:

The correct way to fix this would be to install a battery charger like # 20011 on each of your break-away systems. This is a reasonably priced option that will prevent the overcharging of your breakaway battery and will also prevent the back feeding your describe.

The installation is simple, as you can see in the linked video.

expert reply by: Mike L