Can A Trailer Battery Be Charged From The Truck?
Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 03/13/2025
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Question:
I am wondering what I need to keep a battery charged on my trailer charged from the truck I have 12volt wire in the plug , what else do I need?
asked by: Dale A
Expert Reply:
The wiring on a vehicle can be used to charge up a small break away system battery but on a larger battery it can only provide a maintenance charge and will not charge up the battery. This is because the wire is not large enough and the alternator on most vehicles cannot push back the amperage required to charge a trailer mounted battery.
The best solution to charge the battery at home would be to use an AC charger such as # CTEK56353. This charger not only charges a battery but also reconditions it. Several of us here use this charger for various applications and it works beautifully. I highly recommend it.
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Jesse M.
10/27/2025
Hey, how did things go with the CTEK charger for keeping your trailer battery ready to go? Your update could make it easier for the next person trying to maintain their trailer battery from home.