Trailer Batteries

Thanks...the hot wire is both taped and secured ....

GoPackGo wrote:
And remember that if the trailer is connected to your truck, with no battery installed, the positive lead that is normally connected to the battery will be 'hot'.

+1. A battery is needed. It doesn't have to be large (as I've seen some batteries for trailer brakes which are pretty small), but it is needed to provide the amps for the brake magnets.

Definitely mind that hot wire... if it hits the frame while going along the road with no battery, there will be pain... hopefully the fuse blows first.

And remember that if the trailer is connected to your truck, with no battery installed, the positive lead that is normally connected to the battery will be 'hot'.

ScottG wrote:
No because you need the on-board battery to engage the trailer brakes if the trailer and vehicle separate suddenly.

Thanks, I learn a lot here!

OK thanks, that makes sense, I'm a long time class C motorhome owner who is introducing my neighbor who bought her trailer several years ago, to the RV camping lifestyle. While many of the systems are the same, the braking system is another story...thanks for your comments...

The trailer separation brakes won't work without the battery(ies).

No because you need the on-board battery to engage the trailer brakes if the trailer and vehicle separate suddenly.

Just taking my neighbors trailer down to a repair shop for some body work, she had a slight mishap with a boulder on a sharp left hand turn. the batteries are home on my charger getting topped off...

Yes you can but I'd like to know why.