Forum Discussion

jbone64's avatar
jbone64
Explorer
May 13, 2013

unplug my wire harness?

Heading for a long trip out west this summer. We will be pulling over in areas to rest. My question is should I unplug my wire harness from truck while we sleep overnight. I was told that my truck battery could get drain down. Or does it have to be a very long period of time for this to happen?

19 Replies

  • Unless you are spending the night with out electrical hookup to trailer there should not be a problem :)
  • On unplugging. Last winter we were headed for our spot in AZ and were loaded up ready to go. Got up in the morning and it was below zero. Un-plugged the engine heater and tried to start it. Batteries barely turned it over. I was furious. Called a friend and he came over and with jumper cables it still barely turned over. He said my trailer lights were flickering while I was trying to start it and to unplug it. I did and it and it spun over like a top and fired right up. Lesson learned.
  • Hi,

    Turn the truck off. Check to see if the charging wire is still live. If it is, you should disconnect the harness. If it is not live, then there is no need to disconnect.
  • I think (I'll have to run a test) that with the ignition key in the off position that there is an isolator so that there is no battery draw???

    Should be safe to leave plugged in...but, it sure is easy and fast to unplug. I do.
  • If you do unplug for overnighting, then put a note on steering wheel of your truck to remind yourself to plug it back in the next morning!!:o
  • I have never in 15 years unplugged the truck/trailer while overnighting and never a problem.
  • It is not necessary with our setup but I disconnect just to make sure something does not happen during the night. Only takes a minute of your time.
    Don
  • If your truck is wired correctly, there is no need to disconnect. We don't disconnect if we are not unhitching.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    I always unplug mine but that is just me...

    I try not to mess with anything associated with my truck. This is my only way to keep going....

    Of course I have PLAN Bs for something like that which includes my 2KW generator and portable battery charger

    Roy Ken

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,174 PostsLatest Activity: Oct 30, 2025