Battery disconnect

[dbt1980]

Looking to install a battery disconnect switch. I was thinking of putting it in the cabinet next to the converter in the trailer. I'm just not sure if switching the ground wire is the way these are typically wired in? If anyone knows that would be great to get input.
Thanks

[Shutterbug]

I mounted mine on the side of the battery box.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[itat]

I also mounted mine on the side of the battery box. Sorry I don't have a picture but I think I mounted it high on the front of the box facing the propane tank cover. I put the switch on the positive lead, not the negative/ground.

[NMWildcat]

Most folks put the cutoff close to the batteries to ensure everything is disconnected. It doesn't really matter if you use pos or neg. I always use negative as it's easier in most cases.

[ependydad]

I found a random one off of eBay and installed it in a storage hatch. Wherever you install it, make sure it's easy to get to from the outside and out of the reach of little hands (if they're a concern for you).


http://learntorv.com/dead-battery-in-storage-installed-a-battery-disconnect/

[dbt1980]

Thanks for the input looks easy enough I will get it installed

[CHICKDOE]

I installed one on my 5th wheel. I would like to make a point that I had to think about. there are several leads connected directly to the battery that remain active if the factory installed battery disconnect switch is used to disconnect the batteries. one of these leads is the safety brake switch. it does not drain any power from the batteries but needs to have a 12 volt source to activate the trailer brakes if the trailer separates from the tow vehicle. if you install a disconnect switch that disconnects all circuits from the battery, you need to ensure that the brake emergency switch has power whenever you are towing.

[Thurman]

I also mounted mine on the battery box. I used what's known as a "deep octagon box", nothing special and available at most home improvement stores. I mounted it directly to the battery box, interrupted the HOT cable with the switch. This makes the switch easy to access and when in the OFF position I hang the key on a hook just inside the TT door. I painted the box a "hammer tone black" to give the paint some texture. Works for me

[Barstorm]

I understand the concept of a battery cut off switch. Would like to know how and when to use it. I have one but have never used it. I take the battery in during winter months storage.

[Jwtalley]

I mounted mine in a weatherproof pvc box next to the battery.

[ependydad]

Originally Posted by Barstorm

I understand the concept of a battery cut off switch. Would like to know how and when to use it. I have one but have never used it. I take the battery in during winter months storage.

I disconnect the battery anytime that I'm not actively using the camper AND I don't need 12v on inside for some reason (for instance, if when I needed the fridge on right before or after a trip).

Without a disconnect, I found that my battery would be dead in less than a week from parasitic draws (propane/CO detectors, radio, etc.).

[Barstorm]

Thank you for the information. I keep my unit plugged into my 30 amp service at home. Is it still important to use the battery kill switch even though unit is not being used?

[ependydad]

Originally Posted by Barstorm

Thank you for the information. I keep my unit plugged into my 30 amp service at home. Is it still important to use the battery kill switch even though unit is not being used?

Not really. Monitor the water level in the battery/ies and you should be fine.

[ChipBruce]

If you disconnect the battery it won't charge.

[Thurman]

I'm one that believes you can overcharge a battery even if you're inverter has a so called "trickle charger" built in. I burnt up two batteries with my former camper by leaving them connected while hooked to shore power at home. My current camper stays hooked to shore power at home. I leave the A/C on set at 80° , and the outside fridge running to keep water cooled. I disconnect the battery at this time. I try to remember to turn it back on a couple of days before going camping, IF I can remember.

[txmike]

I used a marine switch and mounted inside my battery box for a clean look. I put it on the positive. I also cleaned up the wireing on the front of my trailer as it was just thrown in there from the dealer.

[GOTTOYS]

I used a couple of those cheap switches once and they didn't last very long when exposed to the outside elements. If you can put them inside they should be okay but keep them out of the rain or they will corrode real fast.