C Max Question
I recently purchased a 2013 Ford C Max to flat tow behind my Thor Ace. I was trying to determine whether the mileage will go on to the vehicle when it is flat towed (which I'm guessing it will) or may...
Forum Discussion
You need the charge line, bottom line. I think what you experienced confirms that. It'll make things sooo much easier for you, because then you won't have to worry or think about it again.
Yes, you can 'get by' without it by stopping every few hours and running the engine to recharge the battery like you did on the way home.
However, the problem is this: 12V starting batteries like what is in cars (your C Max), were not meant to be constantly drawn down low like that, then charged back up. That is 'deep-cycle' use, and they are not meant for that. If you do it reguarly as you're advocating, you could very well shorten the battery's lifespan. Might be replacing it a bit more often than you otherwise would. A few $$ for a charge line is MUCH cheaper than spending $100 for a battery before its time.
Also, your C Max's electrical system probably was not designed, either, to constantly be re-charging a low 12V battery. You could eventually do damage there, too.
Yes, you can 'get by' without it by stopping every few hours and running the engine to recharge the battery like you did on the way home.
However, the problem is this: 12V starting batteries like what is in cars (your C Max), were not meant to be constantly drawn down low like that, then charged back up. That is 'deep-cycle' use, and they are not meant for that. If you do it reguarly as you're advocating, you could very well shorten the battery's lifespan. Might be replacing it a bit more often than you otherwise would. A few $$ for a charge line is MUCH cheaper than spending $100 for a battery before its time.
Also, your C Max's electrical system probably was not designed, either, to constantly be re-charging a low 12V battery. You could eventually do damage there, too.
