dfletch wrote:
Nice write up. One additional thought. I have a Duramax with the capability to add a second alternator I could then dedicate it to the trailer batteries. It would require some rewiring under the hood.
If all the possible solutionso installing a second alternator, especially an older style with internal regulation, would be the simplest solution. Also install a second battery on the TV to connect to this alternator to so it's not running without a battery connected. A small battery is sufficient. That or have the alternator modified so the field voltage can be turned off and the alternator just spins without generating electricity.
The point about upgrading the wire feeding power to the towed vehicle is also important. The usual #10 wire reduce current flow to the distant batteries and signal the regulator "charged battery". Depending on how many batteries are being charged and how far away, I wouldn't consider anything less than a #8 wire with #6 more ideal.
In years past I was able to purchase some "surplus" welding cable that made a great towed vehicle battery charge wire. Only needed one as between ball and equalizer contact there was sufficient ground to carry the other half of the circuit.
