Does Redarc Smart Start Battery Isolator Need to Install on Trailer and Tow Vehicle

Updated 04/17/2023 | Published 04/16/2023

Question:

Hi, I have this charger on my Land Cruiser with an auxiliary battery. I use this same vehicle to tow a tear trailer which powers a fridge, but I have noticed the fridge doesn’t charge much from the 7 pin connector, even when driving for hours. I have verified there is power coming through the connector. It sounds like this charger will help with the issue, but will having this charger already on the tow vehicle create any issue for also having this on the trailer? Or is it that the charger is already directing the alternator power to the auxiliary battery in the truck and not pushing it through the connector for trailer? Any ideas on what setup would work for this scenario? Thanks

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

You would only need to have the Redarc Smart Start Battery Isolator # 331-SBI12KIT installed on your tow vehicle for it to charge properly so it sounds like the wiring from the fridge to where it connects to your trailer connector is the problem and most likely too light of a gauge wire. I would recommend going with a really heavy gauge wire for this like 8 gauge to ensure it can carry the current required.

expert reply by: Jameson C