Simple on/off 12V disconnect switch

Dodge and GM remain connected to battery at shut down, Ford does not.
I've had it both ways and I prefer it stays connected. If I really want to disconnect then I just pull the plug.

bwc wrote:
Is there such a thing as a manual 12VDC battery disconnect switch that will separate the truck from the camper when parked but will allow 12V for the camper.

I am of the opinion that a manual switch is the best solution. It is extremely reliable and allows me to select when the starting and house batteries are connected to each other**. Here's what I have done:

The top row of red t-handles are the house battery disconnects (1 for each battery), the red handle on the lower left (above 110V outlet) is the truck-to-camper battery disconnect.

The Sure Power solenoid is also a good solution. If you go that route, it would be installed in your truck, typically under the hood, close to the battery.

Cheers,
-Mark

**Note that I have the same type of batteries in both the truck and camper.

abslayer wrote:
I believe once you shut truck off this happens automatically to protect truck battery from being drained.
Why would you want to change that ??

My '03 Dodge does not separate truck batteries from camper like Ford.There is a constant 12V to charge line when ignition is turned off. Instead of unplugging the 7 pin cord each and everytime when parked I just want a simple switch inside camper to this. If I become forgetfull then I will install a constant duty solenoid.

Not all trucks disconnect the 12V from the plug when turned off.

You could either put a simple on/off switch in line with the battery charge feed from the truck. You could use a simple $1.89 household light switch from Lowe's for example. Only issue is you need to remember to turn it off and on.

The advantage to the SurePower is it will automatically disconnect PLUS it will not energize until the truck batteries are partially charged. This prevents hitting the alternator with highly discharged coach batteries and discharged truck batteries at the same time.

Google images for "battery disconnect switch" at Harbor Freight. Less than $5. Haven't tried it, but looks very simple.

This is one of the best ways to go.
Large posts are for battery supply. Small post is for connection to a circuit that is "hot" when ignition switch is in the "run" position.

Battery switch

I believe once you shut truck off this happens automatically to protect truck battery from being drained.
Why would you want to change that ??