Do I need an isolator?

[fkovalski]

I just purchased a ’94 Northstar. (“showroom condition” and “garage kept” don’t begin to describe how good of shape this one is in!)



It has a flat 4 connector to the camper. I called the mfgr. And they told me that the 4 leads are: a) HOT- 12V, b) clearance lights, c) ground, …d) AUX/ refrigerator.



Obviously, the standard flat four trailer connection will not directly hook up. The clearance and ground connections to the truck are self explanatory.



For the HOT 12V & the aux/ ref… can they be on the same feed from the truck?



Also… do I need an isolator if I just unplug the camper from the truck when stopped? Does an isolator protect the truck system if, for example, the camper has a short?



Thanks,

-frank.

 

[Prairie Dog]

You don't need an isolator if you unplug as you said and your better off w/o one IMHO.

My mechanic buddy tried to talk me out of installing one on another truck I had, said they fail too often. I did it anyway and after a couple of years it died during a family vacation and I had to jumper it on the side of the road in the dark.

I don't have one now and don't miss it at all.



Scotty

 

[Grizzly]

Yes, get an isolator, but don't get the cheap ignition swith. I found out the hard way.

 

[jeepit]

Hey Grizzly. How was the trip???Oopps, I did not look down the post far enough. I see your report...

 

[fkovalski]

I have not hooked up 12V yet... don't really need it just yet. Over the winter I think I will go with a 30A relay to supply the TC.

 

[klenger]

For a towable, I don't see the need for an isolator as you have to disconnect the trailer when you set it up anyway. For a TC, I'd get one just because it's lots easier to forget. Enjoy the toy.