Community Forums

CWSWine · 01-17-2020, 08:02 AM

We have a 2020 Rubicon on order and will be using a BlueOx Patriot braking system. Is there any requirement to install a battery charge line from the coach to the Jeep? I read the online manual and the ignition is off during towing.

I just learned that that there isn't a hot accessories plug in the console or dash and the only hot accessories plug is by the back tail gate.

Finance · 01-17-2020, 02:31 PM

Probably not, if you don’t tow multiple days without running the Jeep. I found out the hard way that several days of consecutive braking unit operation can drain a battery.

We DO often make long tows, so I just install a charge line on everything. And why not; what’s one more short piece of copper and a diode, when you’re already running all the wiring for the lights and breakaway switch?

CWSWine · 01-17-2020, 07:07 PM

Just went and check and I got the 700-AMP battery that comes in the Trailer Towing group so I don't think I will need charge line. Thanks

stang37 · 01-18-2020, 07:10 PM

My Gladiator computer system would not allow me to use the Patriot brake. The Patriot would show low voltage. I ran a separate wire from the battery to the brake unit still showed low voltage. I ran a separate line for power from the 7 pin plug to the brake unit. No more problems. I did take the gladiator to a deal and that was there assessment. I call Blue Ox and asked them. They replied this has happened on several different vehicle makes and models they were not sure why.

CWSWine · 01-18-2020, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stang37

My Gladiator computer system would not allow me to use the Patriot brake. The Patriot would show low voltage. I ran a separate wire from the battery to the brake unit still showed low voltage. I ran a separate line for power from the 7 pin plug to the brake unit. No more problems. I did take the gladiator to a deal and that was there assessment. I call Blue Ox and asked them. They replied this has happened on several different vehicle makes and models they were not sure why.

That's good to know. I do have a battery jumper box that has a accessory plug on it so I can use that to power the Patriot if I have to.

2 cats · 01-19-2020, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CWSWine

We have a 2020 Rubicon on order and will be using a BlueOx Patriot braking system. Is there any requirement to install a battery charge line from the coach to the Jeep? I read the online manual and the ignition is off during towing.

I just learned that that there isn't a hot accessories plug in the console or dash and the only hot accessories plug is by the back tail gate.

We lucked out with 2018 Wrangler unlimited. There is a constant hot 12v inside the console. Ran charge line as well. Discovered console recep after wiring a socket direct from battery through firewall grommet. Oh well. Patriot brake is good.

JMonroe · 01-20-2020, 11:08 AM

With the Patriot I would use a charge line. My '20 Rubi is the second vehicle I've used the RVI Toad charger on (currently about $85 retail). Extremely simple install, peace of mind.

You may be able to make the dash receptacle "hot" all the time with the menu accessed through the "apps".

Alpine36 · 01-20-2020, 11:21 AM

A charge line should always be installed IMHO.
It's the one upgrade to your toad that basically costs nothing to add, and the piece of mind knowing it will start every time is priceless.
Just my .02