Parts Needed to Charger Lithium Batteries on Trailer While Traveling

Question:

good day, i am having trouble finding an answer to the compatability of the 7pin harness to the camper if using a lithium LiFePo4 battery. will i need to install a DC-DC charger for the hot wire12v from truck or does that hot wire go to the inverter charger PD4135K dc input to charge the battery during travel? or do i need to worry about that at all? i see a lot of chatter about adding a battery isolator or disconnecting the 12 from the tow vehicle. any advice?

asked by: Kurtis R

Expert Reply:

There is a way to accomplish what you are needing to do. But the 7-way isn't going to play a role in charging your battery and doesn't care if the battery is lithium or not. The hot wire coming from your 7-way would only ever be enough to trickle charge your battery.

If you are wanting to charge your battery while under way you will need a DC-DC charger like the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1225D.

You would also want a battery isolator like the Redarc Smart Start Battery Isolator # 331-SBI12 to keep your aux batteries from draining your starter battery. You can then use the Bulldog Winch Rear Wiring Kit - Quick Connect # BDW20026 as a way to add a plug that will allow you to have a way to connect and disconnect your wiring from your truck to trailer.

The Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center with AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger # PD4135K is going to use something like shore power or generator power to charge your batteries. To do this while underway you will need to use the DC-DC charger.

expert reply by: Scott S