Battery cut off switch
I just bought one like the one in the picture below. Should I install it on the positive terminal or the negative and why? I run two 12V group 27s in parallel.
Forum Discussion
I didn't watch the whole video, but I heard one reason for their recommendation to install on the negative was just that installation on the positive created a large chunk of pos-connnected metal that might inadvertently be shorted to the nearby neg-connected frame. When I have that situation, I use some 2" diameter flex hose and cut it about 6" long and split it lengthwise. It can then be spread open and placed over the positive components to protect them from inadvertent shorting to ground when working in the area with metal tools.
It is a bit safer to install in the negative if that's an option, but if you're going to install on the positive, connect the positive first and then connect the negative to the frame. It limits the risk of shorting with the wrench during install.
As to the trailer problem, you need to find out if you need a frame ground for your breakaway. I have a small generator trailer with a mechanical breakaway system and my toad breakaway uses an isolated ground, so either of those trailers could be installed with the switch in the negative. Those with large TTs probably don't have that option as they'll need the frame grounded.
It is a bit safer to install in the negative if that's an option, but if you're going to install on the positive, connect the positive first and then connect the negative to the frame. It limits the risk of shorting with the wrench during install.
As to the trailer problem, you need to find out if you need a frame ground for your breakaway. I have a small generator trailer with a mechanical breakaway system and my toad breakaway uses an isolated ground, so either of those trailers could be installed with the switch in the negative. Those with large TTs probably don't have that option as they'll need the frame grounded.
