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Sammie · 06-23-2015, 07:28 PM

My brother in law just bought a 2012 used Airstream trailer and has a new Chevrolet pickup to tow it with. He left the trailer hooked up to his pickup overnight and in the morning the truck had a dead battery. What's up with this situation and how do we prevent it from happening again?

Thanks, Sammie

powderman · 06-23-2015, 07:34 PM

I have heard of that happening. It seems only certain makes cause this problem. I have a Dodge Ram and can't say if mine does or not as I always unplug it over night. I guess if that's the worst thing I have to worry about I will survive.

bluie5 · 06-23-2015, 08:58 PM

I've heard of this as well. When stopped for the night, or if I hook up the night before we leave home, I always make sure the cord is not plugged into the truck just for that reason.

cb1000rider · 06-23-2015, 08:59 PM

I assume you have a brake controller. It's probably a function of how they wired the brake controller more than anything.

leeshearer · 06-24-2015, 04:22 AM

I installed a 30 amp relay. This way I don't have to remember to unplug the trailer.

justafordguy · 06-24-2015, 08:30 AM

My ford only has power to the plug when the key is turned on because it's on a relay. I would think installing a relay on the Chevy should solve the problem.

BrianGlenn · 06-24-2015, 08:42 AM

As mentioned, most new trucks wired from factory with 7-pin connector, and integrated trailer brake have an ignition switched isolator to prevent the trailer connected load to drain battery in the tow vehicle. Aftermarket wired TVs should have an isolator installed in the power connection (pin at 1 o'clock position, looking into tow vehicle socket) Link here.

Test the TV pin connection with a test light or Digital Volt-Ohm meter with the ignition switch on and off. That should confirm.

IF it is isolated, then something was left on in the truck, draining the battery.

Hope this helps,
Brian