Battery Disconnect

[ptt87]

I apologize up front.....I know there is a lot of traffic on this subject already - and I think I've read most of it!

I'm also looking at installing a battery disconnect to help prevent drainage when parked. I prefer the "keep it simple" approach - but at the same time I want to ensure that whatever I install is safe and effective.

I've noticed a lot of folks prefer the Blue Seas models....

...but it seems to be a more complex and costly solution than a simple battery terminal disconnect switch like this one....


Is there anyone who has experience with both types that can advise me on the pros and cons of each?

Thanks!

[Len & Cheri]

I have the first one you showed and am very happy with it. I would do it over the 2nd just because you don't have to remove the battery box cover. On my other TT I had the type that had the little red key that you turn and can remove. Lasted 1 1/2 season before becoming intermittent.

[ependydad]

I have this one:


1/2 of the hassle before having this one is taking the battery box apart (3 screws in the floor of my storage hatch). The next hassle was NOT shorting out on the metal framing around it.

Right now, I have this switch pretty well insulated and it's laying next to the battery box. This weekend, we're mounting it on an inner wall so I don't have to move anything to get to it.

[ptt87]

Thanks Len. Can you tell me about the install....easy/hard? cables included?

[Len & Cheri]

Originally Posted by ptt87

Thanks Len. Can you tell me about the install....easy/hard? cables included?

Easy install. You will have to buy a battery cable like this Buy Driveworks 20" Battery Cable DW-746 at Advance Auto Parts

The length of the 2nd cable will depend on where you want the shutoff mounted.
1. Disconnect hot wire (red) from battery and install on battery shutoff.
2. Install new battery cable on shutoff.
3. Mount shutoff where you decided it should go.
4. Install other end of new cable on battery (+ side).

# 3 was hardest for me, so I did this: Forest River Forums - Len & Cheri's Album: Camper - Picture

Good luck.

[ptt87]

Do you have the dual battery model, or is the single adequate?

[Len & Cheri]

I have the double, only because I didn't notice when I ordered it that it was a double. Unless you have some idea to add a 2nd battery or something, I would say the single would be best.

[comfun1]

Here is a couple pics of mine. I placed it inside a locked compartment because I was afraid someone might be tempted to play with the electric tongue jack and because it is weather proof.

[bikendan]

i have used the cheap 2nd one pictured. got it at Walmart and have used it with my dual battery setup for over 5 years now.

works great and is a lot cheaper. of course, it doesn't have the capability of switching from one to two batteries.
but, for just a plain disconnect, it works fine.

[KyDan]

Sounds like you've already made up your mind.
You did ask about the cons so I'll say the bottom photo of a battery
terminal switch is the easiest to install BUT-
some folks have said it won't fit under their battery box top and as others
have said you have to remove the battery box top to access the switch.
In my case that's pretty easy because I used a nylon luggage strap to
secure the top on and it's got an easy to remove buckle.

Still, I opted for the bluesea switch. In my trailer I was able to install
it in the toe kick area under the sink next to the power center.
This meant I didn't need any extra wire. I just cut the hot lead that
was coming from the battery going to the fuse panel and put the switch
in that wire. This is a total disconnect for me.
On some rigs that would not work as a total disconnect because they have
items that are fed from the hot wire between the battery and the fuse box.
Some trailers have the slide outs or even the LP detector connected
to the hot lead before it gets to the fuse box. In those, they would need to place
the switch closer to the battery to get a total disconnect.

YMMV.

Good luck!

[ptt87]

Thanks bikendan.....did you need one for each battery, or does one do the trick?

[ptt87]

Thanks KyDan.....haven't made up my mind yet, but those are good comments.

[TURBS]

I have one that does two batteries.
4 Positions.
Both batteries on
Battery 1 on battery 2 off
Battery 2 on battery 1 off
Both batteries off

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by ptt87

Thanks bikendan.....did you need one for each battery, or does one do the trick?

i have one for both 12v deep cycle batteries, wired in parallel. it's on the positive side going to the trailer.