Electrical Checkout at PDI

[Appalachian Ed]

We just put money down on a Rockwood 8289WS 5'er. I am a complete rookie so have a basic question and would really appreciate your help.

How do I check to be certain the connection from the truck is properly charging the trailer battery? The dealer is also installing my fifth wheel hitch and branching into my existing trailer hookup to put a connector in the bed of the truck.

Any other charging/electrical items I need to be diligent on checking before I make that payment and drive away? I will of course be turning on lights, fan, stove, refrigerator etc... to make sure they are working.

[Flybob]

You don't say what TV you have. Many new TVs have the Aux 12V line to the Bargman connector installed, but do not install the fuse ( and if used relay) in the fuse block. Some even supply them in a zip lock bag in the glove box. That being said, the gauge of the wire used in the OEM wire harness is marginal at best. If nothing is on in the 5er you will get some minimal battery charging while traveling at highway speeds. If you are running other stuff ( fridge control) you will get virtually no charge. The voltage drop between TV and 5er causes this problem. If you need some charging capability, run a new #10 wire from fuse block to Bargman for the 12V aux line. Also be sure the dealer uses #10 wire when extending you connection to the bed. To see how you are doing, measure the voltage on the 12V pin of the TV bargman while under about 10A load. You can see as much as 2V drop.

[mfMcFroggierPod]

I installed a Cruz-Pro digital amp gauge so I can always monitor battery charge/discharge rates.

7pin bed connector: purchased a adapter cable. This is done by removing wire harness plug from rear 7 pin connector, plug in adapter cable that feeds bed, no cutting or splicing wires. Adapter approx $65.00
If not make sure they are soldered splices.

Fuses installed in Electrical Power Center under hood. 12vdc charge line and brake controller circuit.


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums