Charging RV batteries with tow vechicle

[Russell_Clifton]

Have any of you folks installed the necessary wiring and components so you can charge your RV batteries while you are driving? It looks like it would be easy to do, the most expensive part being the heavy gauge wire running from the tow vehicle engine compartment back to the trailer.

If you have done this, was it worth the investment and time? Thanks

[time2roll]

Solar also works while driving on a sunny day.

[elivi8]

It should charge through that 7 pin. My guess is that there is a fuse missing which provides the power. Take a look and check the manual as well.

[Russell_Clifton]

I have researched this and there is no charge going to the RV thru the 7 pin connector. I also checked with a multi meter. I just wanted to be able to charge the batteries while traveling, not setting at a camp site. I am leaning towards buying a Honda generator. The stove,frig,heater,and hot water are all propane and I changed all the interior lighting to LED. I don't need to watch TV or listen to a stereo, so the only draw on the batteries should be the water pump. But if I stay at a state or provincial park a few days and the next stop will be another of the same, I not sure how many days the 2 RV batteries will last.

[Orion]

I thought most systems will do that. I checked mine when we first bought it and found the charging wire, the white one IIRC, was a very light gauge, so I beefed it up.
I thought it worthwhile to do.

[dave17352]

If you do a lot of driving then stopping for a evening without shore power and then driving and stopping again without shore power then it would be worth it. If you stop where the is shore power its not worth the hassle. If stopping for more then a day with no shore power then a small genny would be the ticket. I thought about doing the same but I decided to rely on my genny. My converter charge does a great job and I do not have to keep my truck running.

[naturist]

It already does that, albeit it would do it better with heavier wire.

[Dakota98]

Are you attempting to just get a better charge to the batteries while driving or do you intend on using it otherwise also?