Hello to all:
I am new to the forum and recently purchased a 2002 u320 40ft. Foretravel. On my first trip, I towed my 2007 Chevy Tahoe 4 wheel drive in the tow mode and after 3-4 hours the battery was dead in the Tahoe. I have standard light hookup and M&G brake system and I cannot seem to find an answer to the dead battery problem. Has anyone had this problem, if so what is the solution? Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Ralph
Check this out. Barry Beam and others have used it successfully:
http://www.lslproducts.com/ToadChargePage.html (http://www.lslproducts.com/ToadChargePage.html)
Welcome to the group.
We have used LSL for many years and it has worked flawlessly even though Acura said my MDX does not draw any amps while towing.
Here is some additional options
http://beamalarm.com/Documents/charging_your_tow_vehicle_battery.html (http://beamalarm.com/Documents/charging_your_tow_vehicle_battery.html)
Ralph,
I had the same problem when I started towing my 2006 CHevy Silverado P/U. In our case there was no position on the ignition switch to "unlock" the steering so we just had to leave the key in the run position. That drove me nuts for 1,500 miles. Then I learned that Chevrolet had removed the steering column lock in 2004 or 2005. All I have to do is just leave the key in the Off position. I don't know if the Tahoe is the same, but I thought I'd mention this just in case.
Paul
36' 2000 U320
Same problem also. The Toad-Charge per Barry's recommendation solved the problem. It's a quick and easy fix for sure!
My Cherokee also doesn't have a steering wheel lock but the turn signals and brake lights will not work
unless the key is in the "ON" position. I've installed the Toad Charge and plan on giving it a workout next week. We will see.
04 Honda Element, when unlocked wheel, key is in the accessory position, so anything that is on will drain battery such as the radio, heater fan etc.
How do I know ? Guess.
Dave
Been there. I now have a five step check list before I go to pull away after hooking up my Element
Parking brake off - (Burned up the rear brakes TWICE pulling away with it on - coach didn't seem to notice
Transmission Neutral
Radio Off
Fan off
Key on Accessory, check steering wheel turns
No incidents since (know wood)
Couple of other things to consider for the list:
Putting the a/c in the max position or the fan in the "inside air" position if your vehicle has that. May help keep dust from entering the cabin while towing.
Verify all windows shut
Lock the doors
I can't say that my 04 Element's battery (still the original OEM) has left me w/o charge. I start the engine every 4 hours at the minimum, and so far no problems.
I too am very cautious about the parking brake. This is Beth's task, then I double chek after all things are hooked-up.
But, all that said, we once ran about 200 miles towing the Element with its engine running! With the diesel running just ahead of the toad, it becomes hard to hear the Honda engine while performing the last minute checks.
Ralph,
I tow a '07 Malibu and don't have any problem but first you need to remove a 2 AMP fuse located in the panel by the passenger feet. You should be able to find information in the owners manual about what you need to do along with a diagram. If you have a problem email me your telephone # and I will call with more information.
Tony
Just wanted to thank everyone for their input on my battery problem. I will probably install the system that Barry suggested, unless GM can give me a solution. Pulling a fuse is not the thing to do, according to Gm.
Ralph