Camper AND truck batteries dead
So Ive been pretty proud of my recent solar upgrade to the camper, but haven't really had a good workout with it. Fun just knowing everyday the batteries are being topped off and floating due to sola...
Forum Discussion
Most motor homes have an Isolation Relay between Chassis and Coach Batteries. This allows the Chassis (truck in your case) to charge Coach (your trailer) but keeps the Coach/Trailer from drawing from the Chassis/Truck. Your Solar would NOT charge the Truck with this setup.
I suppose you could install a BIRD. Electronic device that lets Either end (Truck or Trailer) to charge the other IF the charging voltage is adequate. Given you don't normally leave your trailer connected, the extra cost doesn't seem justified.
Relay and BIRD allow "Start Assist" where you activate a connection with Coach/Trailer battery as a "Jump Start" for the Chassis/Truck. I DO NOT recommend doing that. You'd be trying to crank a V8 though small wiring, trailer plug, etc. Keep that feature for MoHo's where the connections are made with Battery Cable.
I suppose you could install a BIRD. Electronic device that lets Either end (Truck or Trailer) to charge the other IF the charging voltage is adequate. Given you don't normally leave your trailer connected, the extra cost doesn't seem justified.
Relay and BIRD allow "Start Assist" where you activate a connection with Coach/Trailer battery as a "Jump Start" for the Chassis/Truck. I DO NOT recommend doing that. You'd be trying to crank a V8 though small wiring, trailer plug, etc. Keep that feature for MoHo's where the connections are made with Battery Cable.
