Diode to Prevent Running Light from Feeding Back to 12 Volt Converter

Published 09/28/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Progressive Dynamics 4000 Series Mini RV Converter w/ Charge Wizard and AC/DC Distribution Panel

(487)

$266.06

Roadmaster Hy-Power Diode - (Qty 1)

(350)

$20.68

Question:

I would like to have the option of turning on my running lights when the camper is not plugged into my tow vehicle but is plugged into shore power, or running from the camper battery. I have a Mighty Mini PD4200 not wired in yet. The running lights wires would need a jumper wire to fasten to one of the 12v accessory ports on the converter. The running light wiring otherwise is standard and running to the 7 pin connector and running lights. My concern is what happens when the shore power is disconnected and the 7pin is plugged into my truck and then theoretically Im running 12v backwards into the converter. Ive thought about a simple switch that would disconnect the jumper before hooking up back up to the 7pin. I dont have an isolator switch in my plan yet and probably should on one regardless, and wonder if that would be part of the solution. any thoughts or other ideas? I know about the jumper wire in the 7 pin but looking for something more permanent. TIA

asked by: Justin W

Expert Reply:

Having multiple 12 volt power sources on the same circuit or going back to a 12 volt converter won't cause any issues unlike AC power. That said we do have diodes like the part # RM-790 which only allow current to flow in one direction that you could use if you wanted to prevent the 12 volts from the running light circuit to the converter.

expert reply by: Jameson C