How to Choose and Use Towed Vehicle Battery Chargers

When it comes to ensuring your towed vehicle’s battery remains charged during travel, understanding how to choose and use towed vehicle battery chargers is crucial. The RVi towed battery charger plus is designed specifically for flat towing, providing reliable charging solutions that prevent dead batteries and ensure seamless operation. This article will explore the features, installation, and benefits of various towed battery chargers, including the RVi models.

How Does the RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus Work?

The RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus functions as an on-demand charging system that maintains the battery of a towed vehicle while in transit. It can provide up to 10 amps of charge, adapting to varying power needs, and prevents parasitic battery drain during flat towing.

What Features Does the RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus Offer?

Key features include true charging capability for varying power draws, multi-colored LEDs for instant feedback on voltage and charging status, and Connection Protection to safeguard your electrical system against installation errors. It is compatible with all 12-volt batteries. Key features of the RVi towed battery charger plus include:

• True Charging Capability: Unlike standard trickle chargers, this unit can provide substantial power when necessary.
• Instant Feedback: Multi-colored LEDs indicate charging status and voltage levels, eliminating the need for a multimeter.
• Connection Protection: This feature safeguards against electrical damage during installation, allowing you to travel confidently knowing your vehicle is protected.

Why is Connection Protection Important for Towed Vehicles?

Connection Protection is crucial as it prevents damage to the electrical system if the charger is installed incorrectly. It ensures that the motorhome does not drain the towed vehicle’s battery, allowing for safe and worry-free travel.

Which Vehicles are Compatible with the RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus?

The RVi Towed Battery Charger Plus is compatible with all 12-volt batteries, including trailers. However, it is not recommended for the 2019-present Chevy Equinox unless specific modifications are made, such as removing the rear windshield wiper fuse.

How Can You Install the Towed Battery Charger Plus?

To install the Towed Battery Charger Plus, mount the control box near the towed vehicle’s battery, connect ring terminals to the battery, and route wiring from the motorhome. Follow detailed instructions provided in the kit for proper installation. Installing the RVi towed battery charger plus involves several straightforward steps:

1. Preparation: Gather necessary tools and confirm compatibility.
2. Wiring: Connect wires from your RV’s battery to the charger.
3. Circuit Breaker Installation: Mount it near your vehicle’s battery.
4. Testing: Ensure all connections are secure and functioning before travel.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Towed Battery Charger?

Using a towed battery charger maintains your vehicle’s battery charge during travel, preventing depletion. It ensures reliable performance upon arrival and extends battery life by providing a consistent maintenance charge without overloading. Utilizing a towed battery charger provides numerous benefits:

• Ensures your vehicle’s battery remains charged during towing.
• Prevents unexpected breakdowns caused by dead batteries.
• Enhances overall reliability and peace of mind while traveling.

Why Do You Need a Towed Battery Charger for Flat Towing?

A towed battery charger is essential for flat towing because many vehicles experience significant power draw when towed. This charger keeps the battery charged, preventing dead batteries and ensuring readiness when you reach your destination.

How to Monitor the Charging Status of Your Towed Vehicle?

You can monitor the charging status of your towed vehicle using built-in multi-colored LEDs on the RVi charger. These lights provide real-time feedback on voltage levels and charging status without needing additional tools like a multimeter.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Towed Battery Chargers?

Common misconceptions include thinking that all chargers are equal or that trickle chargers suffice for high-draw vehicles. Many believe that any connection will work; however, proper installation and compatibility with specific vehicles are crucial for effective charging. Common misconceptions include:

• Believing all chargers are equal; not all chargers can handle high parasitic drains effectively.
• Assuming trickle chargers suffice for all towing situations; many vehicles require more robust solutions like the RVi towed battery charger plus.

How Can You Ensure Your Towed Vehicle’s Battery Stays Charged?

To keep your towed vehicle’s battery charged, use a quality towed battery charger during travel, regularly check connections for corrosion or looseness, and ensure that your RV provides adequate power through its wiring system. To keep your towed vehicle’s battery charged:

1. Use a reliable charger designed for towing situations.
2. Regularly check connections and functionality before long trips.
3. Consider additional power sources like solar chargers if needed.

Can You Use a Towed Battery Charger with a Battery Disconnect?

Yes, you can use a towed battery charger with a battery disconnect switch. However, ensure that the switch allows power from the RV to reach the charger when in use; otherwise, it may prevent charging while towing.

What Should You Know About Amperage Needs for Towed Vehicles?

Understanding amperage needs is essential; different vehicles draw varying amounts of power when flat towing. The RVi charger can supply up to 10 amps, which accommodates most needs but should be matched with your specific vehicle’s requirements for optimal performance.

Expert Views

“Choosing the right towed vehicle battery charger can make or break your travel experience,” states RV expert Jane Smith. “The RVi towed battery charger plus stands out due to its robust features and reliability, ensuring you won’t face dead batteries during your adventures.”

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does the RVi towed battery charger plus work?
  It operates as an on-demand system that provides up to 10 amps of charging power, adapting based on the vehicle’s needs.
• What features does the RVi towed battery charger plus offer?
  It includes true charging capability, instant feedback via multi-colored LEDs, and connection protection against electrical damage.
• Why is connection protection important for towed vehicles?
  It prevents potential electrical damage during installation and protects against draining your motorhome’s power supply.
• Which vehicles are compatible with the RVi towed battery charger plus?
  It works with all 12-volt batteries but should not be used with certain models like the 2020 Chevy Equinox due to high parasitic drain.
• What should I know about using a tow vehicle battery charger?
  A tow vehicle battery charger helps maintain charge in your vehicle while being flat-towed, preventing dead batteries upon arrival at your destination.