Battery Shot

[Bob and Peggy]

Trying to make it back home. Battery in our 2020 38RL went bad sometime while traveling and had to switch the disconnect that’s located on the back wall of the battery compartment. While here at this location just been running off the 50 amp service being furnished with no problems. Question I have can I hook back up to our truck and connect the power to trailer but keep the disconnect switch off or can turn that switch plus the main power source switch off as well. Only need break, turn signals and running lights to make it back home

[AZ Traveler]

Bob,

The emergency brakes in the event of the rig breaking away from your truck requires a battery to function. Do not tow without a battery installed.

[Carl n Susan]

Brake, turn and running lights are independent of the RV's 12V system. So you will be fine regardless of the positions of the various RV disconnect switches.

*Important* the RV battery is what powers the break away switch. As the battery is dead, should the RV disconnect from the truck going down the road there will be *NO* automatic application of the RV brakes. Ensure your hitch connection to the RV is very secure.

[Foldbak]

I have a question. You said you're hooked to shore power and everything works. My understanding is that the slides won't operate without a stable 12 volt battery. Am I wrong on this? Will the converter supply enough amperage to work the slides and stabilizers?

[BB_TX]

If you have the tools and skills, I would just pull the battery and run it to Walmart, Autozone, or similar and exchange for a new one of equivalent rating. The converter may or may not provide enough power for the slides. Having a new battery would take out all worry, especially having power for the break away cable power.