Tow vehicle charging batteries

[OB Bambi]

Did you ever install the relay in the fuse box under the hood when you got the truck? They (Ford) puts the relay, a 4 pin adapter (for U-haul trailers) and instuctions in a plastic bag in the glove box or under the seat or somewhere when you get. It won't charge without that.

I met Dan Neil, the auto writer for the Los Angeles Times in Yosemite in July of 2008. He had a new Expedition and a new Airstream (to test and write about). When he got there the batteries were on their last leg. Somebody forgot to install the relay. Sounds just like your problem.

Randy Bowman

[Mexray]

It's time to get out your cheapo digital meter (VOM), your 7-way plug wiring diagram and check the proper pin/terminal for POS 12 VOLTS - with the TV's engine running (alternator operating).

If you don't have 12 volts on the 'charging' pin at the 7-way plug - then check the fuses of your tow harness wiring, under the TV's hood - check your owners manual to find the proper fuses, etc...

If the fuses are OK, you then have to find the relay that powers the towing POS circuit when the ignition is ON - test the relay for proper operation...perhaps the relay has given up the ghost from age, etc...

Our Ford was equipped with the tow harness option when built - the relay was in place, but there were no fuses installed for the charging, brake, tail and stop light circuits...a quick check of the manual showed the proper amp rating and location of the required fuses...

[safari 28]

Originally Posted by OB Bambi

Did you ever install the relay in the fuse box under the hood when you got the truck? They (Ford) puts the relay, a 4 pin adapter (for U-haul trailers) and instructions in a plastic bag in the glove box or under the seat or somewhere when you get. It won't charge without that.

I met Dan Neil, the auto writer for the Los Angeles Times in Yosemite in July of 2008. He had a new Expedition and a new Airstream (to test and write about). When he got there the batteries were on their last leg. Somebody forgot to install the relay. Sounds just like your problem.

Randy Bowman

Thank you, not sure if this was done but i remember the plastic bag. I bet this is the culprit. Anyway, today running from Sacramento and now in the koa in acton and this place is a trip. I-5 is the worst road in the country, and the grapevine has degraded into a 3 rd world rated road. I am always impressed the old streamer takes the pounding and everything works. She really is a durable beast...

[flmgrip]

Originally Posted by safari 28

.... I-5 is the worst road in the country, and the grapevine has degraded into a 3 rd world rated road....

amen... your tax dollars (not) at work...

unfortunatly most of my trips start with that POS I-5

[safari 28]

Any good parks close to the pasadena convention center? Big show for my industry wednesday. thanks!!

[flmgrip]

Originally Posted by safari 28

Any good parks close to the pasadena convention center? Big show for my industry wednesday. thanks!!

none that i know off... at least for camping or parking an AS... sorry