DIY electrical system

Question

So.. I have a pickup camper and want to create an additional charging system. My truck has two "trailer" hookups. I assume one is for the Camper and the other for a trailer.

I'd like to use the trailer receptacle to create a separate system to charge 2 12V batteries to run underbelly heaters. I routinely camp in -20F.

It would be great to "mount" this system on a hitch rack too (thus removable).

Anyone done anything similar or know how I would go about it?

Thanks-Greg

lwiddis · Answer

In -20F conditions you need to insulate the batteries for them to provide anywhere near their rated capacity. Be concerned with the batteries freezing too when significantly discharged. If the batteries are AGM or Lithium they could be inside the RV with you.

lwiddis · Answer

You’ll freeze your batteries at 60% SOC with a temperature of -16F or there about.

roger10378 · Answer

The wiring will not support using both at the same time.  It is either one or the other.  There is minimal current available for keeping a battery charged when driving.

theoldwizard1 · Answer

Any vehicle charging system will not fully charge your auxiliary battery unless you you are using a DC-DC charger.

grit_dog · Answer

And the "2 trailer hookups" share the same power source, literally.

You can wire in a big DC DC charger and use your truck as a very expensive battery charger, or you can use a generator.

If you routinely camp at -20F, I'd think you'd already understand the virtues, correction, necessity, for a generator.

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