Toad battery charging

[mystere900]

I have never been able to figure out why the people who make supplemental braking devices and tow bars don't provide for some sort of battery charging connection from the RV to the toad. Maybe I'm missing something or maybe it's just not needed, but I think something this simple would be an easy fix for not having to worry about a dead toad battery.

[mystere900]

I have never been able to figure out why the people who make supplemental braking devices and tow bars don't provide for some sort of battery charging connection from the RV to the toad. Maybe I'm missing something or maybe it's just not needed, but I think something this simple would be an easy fix for not having to worry about a dead toad battery.

[Pusherman]

Check it out ==> Toad Charge.

[RUFINIT]

When my US Gear was installed, they just ran a charge line from the moho battery to my toad battery. It is one of the six wires in my umbillical cord. Works just fine.

[RV Wizard]

IF your braking system needs 12 volts to operate, a charge line should be installed at the time of install. Some vehicles that do not need fuses pulled may also draw power in the towing mode and will need a charge line. Others like mine do not need one due to the fact there is not power consumption in the towing mode. To add a charge line is not a big deal as long as you have a 6 wire ambilical cord.

[mystere900]

Thanks everyone. I'm using the Roadmaster Evenbrake which plugs into the toad for it's power source. The electronics of the unit probably doesn't draw much, but the air compressor does. The Toad Charge unit looks very comprehensive and sells for $80, but is all that necessary? Having the extra leads in a 6 wire connector, a diode to prevent feedback from a high draw in the RV and a fuse for shorts seems to me all that's needed. Or am I being to much of a shade tree mechanic?

[Pusherman]

I have to believe the Toad Charge has the appropriate electronics for feedback to the MH, but installing it with a fused link is a good idea. I am sure if you go to RVUpgrades.com, you can request the installation manual in a .pdf format (or from the manufacturer's website) to verify what is needed.

You will obviously need the additional conductor in your cable from MH to Toad.

[mystere900]

Looked up the PDF on the Toad Charge install procedure and you are right on about the feedback issue. It also addresses the fuse problem at both ends of the connection. One other nice thing is they allow it to be connected to the chassis or or house battery's.

Also, you are correct about needing another lead on the RV to toad cable. Currently I have a 7 pin connector at the motor home and a 4 pin connector on the toad which provides for lights only. This leads me to a concern about the Toad Charge, adding another set of wires to connect and disconnect and get corroded by road salt. Getting kind of messy back there already with the safety cables, electrical cable, and emergency disconnect lanyard.

Thanks again for all the help.