Forum Discussion
KD4UPL
Dec 04, 2020Explorer II
The problem is mostly that it's a long way from the alternator to the batteries and the vehicle manufacturers use wire that is too small for this circuit. It's often something like #14 or so. It really needs to be more like #6 or larger to get good current flow. People who really want to set things up well for this will run a heavy charge line from the battery tot he rear of the tow vehicle with something like #2 welding cable. Then, you use connectors meant for a lift gate trailer or perhaps some Anderson Powerpole style connectors rated for 100A. Of course this require the matching connector and more #2 cable on the trailer to the batteries.
The other problem is that in the ever present race to improve vehicle MPG many modern vehicles actually lower the alternator's output voltage when the vehicle is just "cruising down the road". Usually turning on the headlights or putting the transmission into tow/haul mode will raise the charge voltage back up.
The other problem is that in the ever present race to improve vehicle MPG many modern vehicles actually lower the alternator's output voltage when the vehicle is just "cruising down the road". Usually turning on the headlights or putting the transmission into tow/haul mode will raise the charge voltage back up.
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