Installing Master Switch on Camper Trailer | RV Kill Switch

[@jimstephens1849]

In all my 42 years of being a nationally registered professional fire & explosion forensics Investigator, where electrical analysis is critical, I have yet to work with an electrical engineer who could explain systems better than you did. Truly impressive.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for the kind comment and encouragement. The channel has been a lot of fun.

[@johncotter9082]

I work with professional engineers on a daily basis. Some of the most talented brains with no functional ability I have ever known. Thanks for the tutorial Brian!!

[@scottswannie2500]

Finally a guy who sticks to the subject matter at hand, explains it in detail and layman’s terms, doesn’t pause, and doesn’t feel the need to give his resume’ ahead of time and doesn’t have a pet bird he’s always talking to. I wish there were more videos like this on all topics and people would just get to and stick to the task at hand. Great video. This guy would make a great teacher at a trade school. I subscribed. Thanks much.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

LOL, Thank you. It's actually hard to do! I'm always tempted and sometimes succumb to the side story😂 Thank you for watching and subbing, I appreciate it.

[@scottswannie2500]

Hey Brian. Other videos show the installer using the negative terminal on the switch, not the positive. Is that correct?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@scottswannie2500 it's not incorrect, but not how I would do it. This can get complicated, but it's not that hard to follow. I believe the confusions comes from the idea that when you remove a battery, you should remove the negative terminal first. If you want to stop your car battery from dying, when you're not going to use it for a while, you disconnect the negative side. So when people go to install a kill switch, naturally some throw it on the negative side. It seems logical, it works, and most will never experience a problem. However, the truth of "shoulds" & "should nots" with DC has to do with the highest likelihood of inadvertent short circuits. When removing a battery, the most frequent is touching + to the chassis while it's bonded to the -side of battery.... ~ZAP~ Therefor you remove the NEG first. None of this applies to a disconnect on a camper. The likelihood of short, in this case, is breaking the continuity of the ground when the positive side is still energized. For instance, changing a switch or light in the camper with the kill switch in the disconnect position - no problem if it's positive switched- really high chance of throwing sparks and fuses if you have the switch on the negative. I know this is a long answer, but I get asked a lot, so maybe I'll copy and paste it...lol There's a reason why almost 100% of industry pros put the switch on the positive in this application. They will put it on the negative in "floating" systems like phone systems because they're grounded differently. - -In short, BOTH work fine, but the data is strongly on the side of the positive switch team. When you ask someone why they do negative, they usually say, "bc that's the way I've always done it..." Hope this helps!

[@scottswannie2500]

@@DIYOutdoorLife Thanks much. Great explanation

[@donoimdono2702]

you are correct. back in the old days I was a M1 turret mechanic.expensive gear in there. we killed pos term for same reasons you mentioned.

[@justinbaki]

This is the best kind of instructional video on youtube. You are clear, you explained details that matter. You are not annoying. Buy yourself a steak, you are my hero.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Haha… I will enjoy that steak, thank you so much for watching!

[@sirnickscott3466]

As a licensed electrician I can appreciate such a nice thorough video . Well done .

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you ⚡️

[@reneebowers4230]

A must-watch! Brian is meticulous with his instructions on this installation process. He really thinks things through and is able to communicate the process in a way that a layperson can understand. Thanks again Brian Smith​

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate everyone supporting the channel and will try to keep the videos coming. The more people getting outdoors the better!

[@suziemyers9855]

I'll spare the details but when I picked up my camper, not a thing was said about it draining the battery and we were baffled. I have a switch in my to-do box and feel completely confident in installing it. You are a godsend. I really like,"here's what I'm going to do" and then it's done videos. Thank you!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That story is all too common, they mostly want that commission check... lol Thank you for watching!

[@rvonabudget7330]

As evidenced by several of the other comments, thanks for sticking to the stuff we need to know. No unnecessary commentary and not trying to sell us on your sponsored brand. Easy to follow and much appreciated. Thanks!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, really happy you swung by!

[@burtreynolds6163]

Thank you for getting right into it and not wasting time with silly introductions, distractions, and stuff I don't need!

[@cdawgRJ]

Rarely we see a video so detailed and with someone who’s so well spoken. I’m impressed and am a new subscriber

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I hope you like the other videos on the channel. We’re trying to organize vids in playlists.

[@cdawgRJ]

Indeed, I have. I watched tons last night since we purchased our first trailer. Learned a lot! Thank you for what you do

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@cdawgRJ Thank you, that means a lot. Congratulations on the trailer, what did you get?

[@cdawgRJ]

Thank you! Got a Coleman Lantern 17B. Small and more affordable but excited to create memories with the family

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@cdawgRJ Nice, let us know how you make out!

[@katemoody7647]

Your videos give me confidence to tackle almost everything on my camper myself. Fellow BW owner here and feel like I’m in over my head sometimes so finding your channel has been a game changer. Thank you so much!!!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

You got this! Feel free to reach out if a question comes up or you have a request for vid.

[@laurence72delucchi46]

Thank you for this great video. Installed it with the plywood spacer which was a great tip. My r pod had 4 wires on the positive post and I had to move 3 to the switch to turn off all the power. You might add this to your video. Thanks again Larry

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

So glad it helped! Great idea about addressing multi wire systems in a video, thanks!

[@sue3650]

I really appreciate this video. Concise and to the point. I am a single senior gal and want to add this to my RV battery. Following your explanation I know this will be an easy job for me. Thanks for the information..

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Comments like this make my day! Thank you for watching and good luck with your project.

[@samshumka8149]

Seriously awesome. You explained electrical concepts very clearly, especially the reasoning behind switching the positive side of the battery. Bravo.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you!

[@6Sally5]

I watched another YT video how to install this very switch, and he ran the switch off the negative side...stating his automotive background the negative gets the switch and he had a very sound explanation. However, your equally sound reasoning for running the switch off the positive side is also quite convincing. My switch gets here tomorrow from Amazon (thanks for the link) and I want to make sure I do it the best way.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Hi Alan, I used to try to not offend people, "Which ever way works best for you..." The truth is, the negative side switch is wrong, plain and simple...lol An RV has a chassis ground, when you switch the negative side, you introduce an elevated risk to appliances by maintaining "potential" at the device, when the battery is turned off. It can get complicated, but the evidence is clear that switching the positive and removing that potential, while maintaining a pathway to ground, is superior in this situation. The reason people get this mixed up, is due to the simple rule that you learn when working on cars. When removing a battery, always take the negative off first. This is a rule to reduce the risk of short circuits. If you took the positive off first, you risk bridging a metal tool from the positive to any of the metal under the hood. It all has to do with the highest likelihood of short circuits. If you're installing a switch, it is different than removing a battery. The risk is of shorts downstream, you're not moving the battery through a tight metal space. The industry puts master battery switches on red 100% of the time, when the negative side is the ground. I hope this makes sense, sorry if I took me a page to respond 😀

[@jasonedwards4656]

Thanks for this video. I just installed this Saturday prior to our second trip out in our Free Solo. Really appreciate you and your channel. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and showing us other BW and FS campers for ideas.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks Jason, I appreciate you tuning in!

[@zrgz_]

Thank you so much for throwing this together! Super clear, concise and easy to follow. I have a bushwacker 10fb and have been wanting to do this as my first mod. Now I feel confident enough get started!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

you got this! feel free to circle back with any questions. I appreciate you watching and commenting. SUBSCRIBE: kzbin.info

[@scottmallory3507]

I have had one of these switches for years that came with a Terry house trailer that I used for accommodation when I built my house. I never installed it because I didn't understand it's purpose. I am going to install this on my new teardrop now. Thanks again.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That’s great, good luck w the project. Thanks for watching!

[@boxboycraig908]

One of the best instructional videos I have seen. Well done sir.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I really appreciate that! I hope you subscribe to the channel to check out our other content

[@sunroy1]

I’m going to agree, your explanation was really great! I knew most of this already but didn’t fully understand why you must wire the switch on positive side. Thanks

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@donoimdono2702]

I found you 5 days ago. immediately subbed. as Scott Swannie posted - you have good practical knowledge and you're delivery is thorough and efficient. I'm learning a lot

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that youre watching the channel!

[@donoimdono2702]

@@DIYOutdoorLife - installed same switch last week on my pop up. thanks again.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@donoimdono2702 nice!

[@dianashaw-caro1083]

Thanks! You made it easy for a newbie to feel confident to install a master switch.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching!

[@dzw4826]

I've been installing my battery kill switches on our RV Fleet since 2017 on the negative side and have never had an issue. It has the same effect, kills the power and does not drain the batteries. In fact I do it because any mechanic will tell you to always attach the positive terminals first to avoid arching your tools. You make a good argument and you're correct that the positive side is the hot side, but nothing is flowing unit the circuit is completed. Also in-fact all of the units we have that came factory installed are on the negative side. That said, great tips on installing the switch, and you definitely do a nice job with producing your videos! Thank you!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for tuning in. If you go through the comments, we talk about this in greater detail. There is still potential at the devices if you switch the negative, while you open up your pathway to ground. There is no situation where this is advantageous over switching the positive. Every governing body that inspects or regulates DC electrical systems has mandated that you switch the positive and maintain uninterrupted, and unfused pathway from chassis to the negative, the rest is urban legend. When you’re adding and removing a chassis ground battery, you definitely remove the negative first. For some reason people think that applies to DC master switch, it doesn’t, it’s a completely different situation.

[@beaujossel3791]

Just picked up my trailer today from storage. Went to use the electric tongue jack...dead. Hooked up the truck thinking I'd use it to power the jack, nope. Busted out the 7/16 socket and began cranking. First thing that popped into my mind, I need a kill switch. Great video...thanks man!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I've been there, it gets costly. How long was it in storage? SUBSCRIBE: kzbin.info

[@beaujossel3791]

@@DIYOutdoorLife, ~6 weeks. That said, we try and go camping about every 4-5 weeks, the batteries are always drained, but I've always been able to hook up the truck and use the tongue jack.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@beaujossel3791 definitely time for the kill switch install! It's fast and will save a lot of money.

[@BrookRieman]

I feel confident to do this myself now. Thanks! Truly love your videos.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for watching, I appreciate the comment!

[@alanblum5505]

Best & most useful & easy to follow how to video - exactly what looking for to fix issue with trailer draining battery when not in use or plugged up. Thanks for making this easy to follow.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

thanks so much for swinging by and commenting, glad it was helpful!

[@gregjean130]

It is amazing how easy you make all this. You are a great teacher.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for that. I’m excited to see people tackling these jobs themselves.

[@michaelbryant705]

Thank you for the clear informative video. I installed a switch on my Jayco Baja. In order to fit a piece of wood between the battery and the bolts I had to install the nuts on the outside of the box. I had to add stainless washers so I could tighten the unit, otherwise the nuts were inaccessible in the recessed area. Easy fix and it works like a charm.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Great improv! I appreciate you swinging by and commenting!

[@hidden317]

Man this series saved me hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars. Thank you so much!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That's great, I really appreciate reading comments like that.

[@marekzmazur2077]

using the plywood and short wood screws is great advice. clever. thanks for the tip 👍🏻

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you- good luck with the project!

[@sandramichaud8033]

Ok, subscribed. Thanks for an easy straightforward explanation. You’re easy to listen to.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, good luck with the project and I appreciate the sub!

[@karenvinti3217]

I just received the battery switch, the “instructions” have a little picture that is less than helpful. I immediately check your KZbin channel for perfect instructions to install this. My little camper is in storage but this is definitely the first thing I will be installing this spring. Thanks, you’ve put my mind at ease!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you so much, I appreciate you watching!

[@karenvinti3217]

Ok, getting ready to install the switch but on my battery there are many other wires connected to both the positive and negative. Can I still just connect the wires as you have shown here?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@karenvinti3217 it depends. You likely want to connect all of the wires that were connected to your positive, to the switch. From there, one wire can go from the switch over to your battery positive. This will turn everything off when you turn the switch off . If you have solar, it might be worthwhile to keep that connected to the battery positive. In other words, all of the wires go on the switch, except the solar, that would remain on the battery positive. That configuration, when you turn the switch off, everything shuts off but the solar continues to charge the battery. Hope this helps, thanks for watching!

[@karenvinti3217]

@@DIYOutdoorLife they are solar wires, that was my concern, I didn’t want to interfere with the solar. Once again you’ve explained it perfectly for me. I really appreciate it!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@TTFNOverland]

Just did this step by step after watching the video. Awesome video. Up next is the switch to the radio

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Nice, Thanks for watching!

[@LivingInSantaClarita]

No "begging" needed! I actually subscribed prior to you mentioning that! I thought gee if this guy can explain a simple battery switch hook up so well then he must do a great job with everything else! I have watched so many videos on how to hook up a master switch and wasn't happy with them. Finally I came upon yours and as someone mentioned, it is through and detailed for the layperson. Thank you for your time and effort on this, your desire to educate is spot on! I have two batteries, parallel . My only question to you is why the positive terminal, when everyone else says hook it up on the negative terminal?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Glad it helped and thank you for subscribing. Gotta do some begging early on to get the channel off the ground…haha -as for the switching side w DC, the debate has been going on forever. The truth is either side works and gets the job done. When working with DC, it comes down to which is “best” - usually related to avoiding short circuits. With a system that is bonded and grounded to chassis, like an RV, you do not want to break or switch that ground. With phone systems or “floating” systems it doesn’t matter. Take for instance servicing a light or water pump on the rv, if the positive side was intact and you touched a wire to metal, you would complete the circuit and the appliance would turn on… this wouldn’t happen with positive switching. It’s complicated and easier to do demonstrations to show the difference. Hope this helps and good luck with your project!

[@tommy5770]

I’m so happy I found tutorial…thanks for the easy directions

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I’m glad you did too, thanks for watching.

[@DavidWvu]

Well explained video. Just getting into pop up camping.There's lots of information I need to know about batteries, control panels, battery monitors, solar charging the battery and of coure the master switch.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for watching. There’s definitely a lot to learn but it can be fun 🤩

[@stevemccuen8131]

Hey Brian, thanks for another good, practical video. I did have to chuckle, though... When I first started looking at videos about RV modifications, I found that there are some strong opinions regarding whether the power disconnect switch should be on the positive or negative side. This sent me down a geeky rabbit hole of learning about Ben Franklin and J. J. Thomson - and common current versus electron flow. In the end, it seems that either way works - and the trailer I'm buying comes with a power cutoff switch anyway. But hey, I learned some things, so it's all good!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Haha, I’ve been down those rabbit holes with projects as well. It starts with, “what kind of paint to…” -then it’s 3 am and you’re reading about 19th century lead poisoning.. haha Thanks for watching and commenting! What trailer are you getting?

[@stevemccuen8131]

@@DIYOutdoorLife We had this conversation in another comment thread. :-) I'm getting an Aero Teardrops, Steel H/C trailer. Have a great day!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Haha….as the channel grows I lose track, I guess that’s a good thing! Awesome trailer, hope you love it, send pics!

[@cwclifford]

Love your videos! I just added a battery disconnect on my popup but put it on the negative so it interrupts the ground path for ALL connections like my lift winch and trailer brake plus eliminates any possible shorts.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for watching the channel. Lots of fun outdoors!

[@xavierpacheco7297]

Thank you so much you just taught me something incredibly valuable. I just purchased a new trailer so this was incredibly important to know

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That's great to hear, thank you for watching!

[@VOOODOOO37]

wow, this is the best video out here on KZbin, thanks for such a great explanation.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@paulenright]

Power on, power off switch ... going to give that one a try tomorrow ... excellent tutorial, thanks so much for sharing! 🎥👍👍🍻

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@RobHawkins-hi1wn]

very well done- sounded like my 9th grade shop teacher! Good Job

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Haha... thanks for watching!

[@lewanderson302]

I hope you are engaged in some teaching capacity as you do an excellent job. Thank you for such a concise and thorough tutorial, very well presented without the usual ramblings and promo. Much appreciated!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you so much. I used to be a teacher full time, I still like making some instructionals on KZbin.

[@brianprendergast4105]

Great video for me as a newbie boondocker. Wondering what the best ways to test battery life of an old battery. We just bought 4 year old TAG and used it last weekend first time. System seemed good but need to make sure battery is going to keep us happy for a two week camp coming up in September.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

There is some affordable battery analyzers on the market, but results may vary. Most places that sell batteries, like automotive stores, will run an analyzer on your battery for free, but I've seen that get wonky as well. The most accurate, user-friendly way to do it at home is to leave it on the charger for a while until it is completely completely charged. When you take it off, test the voltage, it's usually over 13. Let the battery sit off the charger for a while, many hours, a whole day might be best. It should be resting at 12.7 V or higher. Leave it for one more day, and test the voltage again . if it's 12.5 or lower, your batteries played out. if it can hold 12.7 for at least a day, it's got some good life in it. 12.6 lets me know we're getting close. Make sure the batteries completely disconnected for this test, it can't be connected to anything. Hope this helps! www.amazon.com/dp/B0BVM5SPW4/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_VB3EK14BP98B899MV0TM?linkCode=ml2&tag=diyoutdoorl0f-20

[@ShiftGearsMoto]

Incredibly clear video with great tips. Thanks for the details.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching!

[@jipjob1]

I installed a two battery cut oft switch on my batteries and now my batteries stay fully charge. Befor the switch my batteries would drain down even with a cut out switch on the dash of my motor home! Great to install!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

They definitely help eliminate any of that pesky parasitic draw!

[@thetallmanspodcastreacts]

Thank you! This covered exactly what I needed. Well explained and no fluff.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching!

[@PappysKeepers34]

Hi, I just watched your video at 3:56 you explained hooking the wire to the disconnect switch, does it matter which terminal to connect it to on the disconnect switch because mine doesn't have any markings mine, also I was told to use the negative terminals when hooking it up does that matter too. Thanks

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Fine to use either terminal, they are interchangeable. Do try to use the positive for this application, you’ll be better off.

[@risconamira]

Happy to see your channel growing faster and you having fun. I looked in mine TD and it ia more complicated. There is one line to the solar controller, one line going to charger/inverter and another to the switch board. In theory this last one is the one to interrupt but in inverter is turned on then there is another way out.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

No problem, leave the line to your solar charger connected to the battery. Connect BOTH of the other wires to one side of the switch Next connect the short new wire from the other side of switch to battery +. Then when your switch is turned off, it leaves your solar on and shuts everything else down. If you need more help, feel free to email me. Thanks for watching, I’m excited that the channel is growing too!

[@bikingal4283]

@@DIYOutdoorLife thank you for explaining to this commenter... go my new TD with solar in June... now I can check to see if wired properly... lots of us needed this advice

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@bikingal4283 glad it helped out 😀

[@ryanwalsh5305]

Great video!! Straight to the point and no nonsense!!!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I’m glad it helped. Check out our other videos to see if it’s worth subbing! SUBSCRIBE: kzbin.info

[@ryanwalsh5305]

@@DIYOutdoorLife how long is your short wire going to the switch?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@ryanwalsh5305 it’s the one in vid description… off hand I think it was a foot

[@jeffhernandez9599]

Great video man. Really helped me with my new camper. You just got a new subscriber. Cheers!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Welcome aboard! Thanks for swinging by and subbing.

[@johncotter9082]

Great stuff. I need to dedicate a circuit to my rv fridge, but want to use a 100 ah LiFeP04 battery for that.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Nice, some dual battery setups are really nice. Best of both worlds.

[@bosrules1]

Excellent simple straight forward video.....I will watch any made by you

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, that means a lot!

[@cdawgRJ]

Damn that’s what I call a perfect video!!! felt like I took a class. Amazing

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate that.

[@DataCentre007]

Thanks! I got the same switch yesterday and had to figure out how to install.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Nice, should be a fun project.

[@DataCentre007]

@@DIYOutdoorLifesuch an easy thing to do. Thanks for the tutorial.

[@jeromesmith1243]

Great job 👍 you are plain and honest learned a lot thanks

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching and the kind words!

[@jacoe33333]

I should have watched this video before I did myne. Hope there is not a hole in the battery. Thank you for video.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Easy to fix, happy you watched!

[@bobbybeard5657]

Hey Brian I haven't seen the update on that new bendable solar panel you where going to put on the truck How is it working. Thanks for all you do

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

They’re amazing. I started having second thoughts about its placement, we might be getting a new truck next year and this install is permanent. I found a way to temporarily install it to start seeing how it performs. I’ll be able to include this in an upcoming video. In short, it’s really really nice. I just wish they made an option that was a little shorter.

[@LucRoberge-q8l]

Thanks Brian. Excellent video as usual! By switching the power off, does that stop my vehicle from charging the trailer battery while driving?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Yea, it completely disconnects the battery. If needed, there is a simple way to allow it to charge while disconnecting the trailer.

[@LucRoberge-q8l]

⁠@@DIYOutdoorLifeI suspected that. I have a r-pod with 4 cables connected to the positive side of the battery. I guess I could try to find the one used by my truck for charging and keep it connected to the battery and move the other 3 to the switch. Anyway, what do you have in mind with a “simple way” of doing this? Thanks 🙏

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@LucRoberge-q8l that's it. You basically have to trace the wire that comes from your seven pin, one of those is a 12 V source designed to charge the battery. When you find that wire, you just directly connected to the battery. On mine, I had to go into the junction box that the seven pin plug runs to. from there, you can splice it right over

[@teresas7272]

Fantastic video - so clearly explained!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I really appreciate you watching the channel!

[@neilholley9973]

I have two 6V batteries which are a very tight fit in the battery box's. Installation with the provided screws will not work. I like your idea of using double back tape to attach the switch on the battery box. If I do that, how do I attach the bottom plate to the switch body and still maintain a flat mating surface? I really enjoyed this video and subscribed immediately. I admire the clarity that you provide and the thoroughness of your presentation.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

There is a number of ways to do this. My favorite has been to screw a small, well fitted piece of wood to the battery box. I drive the screws from inside the box into the piece of wood for a secure fit. From there, you can attach the switch by screwing it to that small piece of wood, with screws of the proper length. That is the best, most secure way to work around. For VHB tape, a lot of people just super glue, the backer plate to the switch housing. Since it’s an inexpensive switch, that does not need servicing, this is a solution that works for a lot of people. They then attach the backer plate to the box with VHB tape. Thank you for watching, I appreciate your subscription !

[@neilholley9973]

@@DIYOutdoorLife I used the fitted piece of wood method and it worked like a charm, thanks.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@neilholley9973 great news! Happy camping!

[@ALWOOD_USA]

Thats a good idea with the VHB tape.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, good luck with the project!

[@chrisdean4096]

Just did this MOD and this is AWESOME!!!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Nice!

[@lukeramirez8060]

Can you discuss the pros and cons of putting the switch on the negative vs positive side?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Hey Luke, its a common question in other comments on this video if you scroll down. Positive should be used if possible, no advantage to neg switch.

[@susanhansen4453]

So glad I found you! You cover everything I’ve been looking for! Binge watch time! 😝 Your style reminds me of Norm, from This Old House! 😝❤️

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I'm so glad you found the channel! We're really happy to have you...and I love Norm! haha thanks for watching!

[@denisemoser7318]

Here is my second question (after you helped me with the temp sensor disconnect idea!): I am replacing my battery fuse (story below), But the new switch would make it about 18 inches from the battery--seems most guides say no more than 7-8 inches away. Another choice is to put it on the battery side of the switch--easiest might be right on the end and tuck the inline (blade type) fuse holder into the battery box. Is there anything wrong with this alternative or is this maybe an even better place? Here's how I got here. As I was manipulating the positive lead wire that goes back to the converter, I noticed the "fuse" was encased in electrical tape with obvious rust emanated from it. After unraveling it, I fond the fuse was a rectangular box with the wires connected to two screws on the box plus with two screw holes to attach it someplace, unused in this situation. Upon trying to disconnect the first wire, the little box disintegrated in my hand. The "fuse" itself inside the box was about a half inch wide and an inch long with thin corners connecting it to the wires. Wierd little contracption, who knows how many amps that was. So I am replacing it--my Aframe stuff says that should be just a 20 AMP fuse. Do you know how hard it is to find 8 AWG wire, inline fuses, connectors, and crimp tools? Don't worry, solved it, but wasn't easy--all 8 AWG. Thanks for all your info, you do great. Looking foreward to more.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

It's very easy to find in-line fuse holders for any current and wire gauge these days online. Try to find pure, or tinned copper, and stay away from CCA (copper clad aluminum). Always fuse the positive side and, like you said, try to stay as close to the positive terminal as possible. 20 A does seem low for your whole camper, are you sure the battery is only fused at 20a??

[@John36915]

Thank You; I really appreciated the way you explained everything. Your video really helped me out.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I’m glad you found us!

[@robertblalock4074]

I want to do this to my jayco trailer that has two batteries. That being said should I use two switches so that I can isolate them from each other for two battery maintainers when the trailer is stored? I store my trailer in the driveway. I had one battery maintainer maintaining both batteries and never had a disconnect switch. Long story short my maintainer didn't last but a few years and both of my batteries need to be replaced because I didn't realize my maintainer died.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

One switch is fine. Parallel both the batteries and just placed the switch on the wire that's heading to the camper. You're fine to use one maintainer, I like to put the negative on one battery in the positive on the other. Try the NOCO maintainers, I've had a lot of luck with them. #ad amzn.to/3VMcdfc

[@gwenmadeline54]

Oh my. I so thankful for your simple and clear explanation. We just bought a 5th wheel. The battery died during storage. We had the battery charged and bought a solar charger for the battery. Soooo if I put this switch on will the battery be able to charge when the switch is on the off position? Do I leave the red switch in the camper in the on position at all times?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Hi Gwen, hook you solar charger directly to the battery. Then it will charge, no matter the switch position. If you plug the solar into the “solar on side“ port, then this master switch will turn that off as well. I would have to see a photo or description of what switch is inside your camper, each one different. Do you have a master switch inside as well? Thanks for watching, I hope you will subscribe😀

[@Pixelgraft]

You have excellent presentation skills sir. Very good and simple video

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate the kind comment.

[@lauriewhittle3452]

What a great teacher. Thank you. I love that you stuck to the subject and didn't try to make things funny. Please continue to do these type videos. Definitely subscribed to channel and shared with friends that are new to travel trailers like me.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate that. Feel free to request videos on helpful topics too!

[@lauriewhittle3452]

@@DIYOutdoorLife I looked at my battery today and I have two wires coming off positive side. A 10 AWP to the trailer and a 14 AWP going to my tongue jack. I’m assuming the AWP is the wire gauge? Which gauge should I get for the bypass and how do I wire both red wires into the disconnect switch. Thanks.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@lauriewhittle3452 you’ll want to attach a 10 gauge to your new switch. You can then attach both the tongue jack wire and the camper wire to the other side of the switch -or- you can attach your tongue jack wire to the positive side of the battery. In the first application, the switch will turn everything off, in the second, your jack will work whether you’re switched on or off. For me, I like to have everything switch off, so I attach both jack and camper wire to one side of switch and use 10 or 8 gauge from other side of switch to battery positive. I hope this helps, feel free to email if you want me to draw you a crude diagram.

[@lauriewhittle3452]

@@DIYOutdoorLife I understand. Just moving both wires to the same terminal on the disconnect switch and the new wire to the other terminal on switch and run it to the positive side of the battery. I have looked high and low for a 10 guage wire with the ends. Any idea or a link to where I can order it?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@lauriewhittle3452 I make them on the bench, they’re probably tough to buy on Amazon. Just use an eight gauge, marginal price difference, easy to use and find. amzn.to/35mks6o Hope this helps!

[@kylejonesUB]

This was very well done and helpful!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, appreciate you watching!

[@welborneoutdoors7418]

Wow. U were amazing sir. Thank you for the help!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I really appreciate you tuning into the channel!

[@RaisaMatin]

Amazing and well spoken video! You know your stuff. Way more helpful than the other videos I’ve seen of people guessing how to set a switch up

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate you swinging by. Check out our other videos and subscribe!

[@ThisIsYourArizona]

some people say you shoudl connect the switch on the negative wire. Can you tell me whaqt your thoughts on this is and why you choose the positive wire?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

It works either way, but there's no question that the positive switching is superior, even if it's a slight advantage. Switching the positive is actually code for all DC systems that have regulating bodies and oversight. Airplanes, stock cars, military vehicles, and inspected solar systems. The people that switch negative are typically making a mistake based on a simple set up with cars. When removing a battery, you always remove the negative wire first. This is to prevent your conductive ratchet from touching the frame when removing the positive. If the negative isn't removed, the wrench will ark. They then carry this over to thinking that a switch should be placed on the negative, in fact, it's not the same thing at all. When you switch the positive, you completely eliminate potential to all of the appliances, while maintaining a pathway to ground. By switching the negative, you were eliminating your pathway to ground, this should be avoided at all costs. To get into all the details here, I'd have to write a full essay. if you do some research, you will see that there's not a real debate amongst professionals, you always master switch the positive. Hope this helps, thanks for watching!

[@cosmicninja6924]

Just a question for my boat, there are some other wires besides the positive wire attached to my battery, assuming for accessories or something. Would these stay on the battery or be also on the switch? Thanks! Great tutorial though, I’ve watched 3 other other videos before this one and was still confused somehow .

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That is up to you. Anything you bring over to the switch will turn off when you switch it off. Most of the time we put all of that stuff on the switch so you can completely shut off the boat. If there is something like solar you might want to leave that on the battery so that when you turn off, the loads are disconnected, but the solar still charges. If it's just accessories, I would bring it all over to the switch. Thanks!

[@sjTHEfirst]

Question: Would you suggest installing a cutoff switch on the battery if the camper has a solar system?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Yes, my preference is to wire the solar/CC directly to the battery and place cut off switch on the wire to the camper. It's the same as this video, except I'd make sure my solar is connected directly to the battery . It's fine either way, but that allows the solar to charge while loads are disconnected.

[@Loco-Mo-Joe]

Would one be able to prevent arcing by wiring this into the negative side as opposed to using the positive wires?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Positive side is highly preferred although either will work. Neither side will arc when it’s not under load, it’s different than removing a battery on a car or bike. Hope this helps!

[@outandaboutrving9913]

Quick question. If you had two batteries, would you hook the battery disconnect up the same way having the positive coming from the camper to the battery disconnect, then hooking the other lead from the battery disconnect to the positive? The answer is probably yes, but want to make sure. Thank you in advance.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

You got it, the answer is yes. You said it at the same way, essentially switching the wire heading to the camper.

[@outandaboutrving9913]

Awesome. Thank you very much for confirming.

[@outandaboutrving9913]

Thank you very much

[@gabe.studio5961]

Hello Brian. If I install a switch like this, will the converter draw less power when I use a battery pack. I’m using a ego 400 watt power station but it overload if my battery is low. Thanks

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Yes, being able to turn the switch off will stop the PPS from overloading. Check out my other videos on using power stations with RVs for more tricks. Thanks for watching.

[@gabe.studio5961]

Hey Brian. Just dis the master switch install and it works. No more overload of the power station. Thanks for your input.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@gabe.studio5961 awesome!

[@melvis2017]

Thanks for the good job and the great explanations.u are a good teacher .very logical and I will wire my very old jeep in the way u did it with ur beautiful van🇩🇰👍🙏

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I sure love old jeeps.. what do you have?

[@melvis2017]

@@DIYOutdoorLife thanks allot my jeep is M38a1 from Korea W

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@melvis2017 can you tell me what Jeep this is in this video? @6:45 kzbin.info/www/bejne/lX_RgH2jnLymptk

[@melvis2017]

@@DIYOutdoorLife Hi Brian thanks allot for the answer. Those beautiful cars you have in the back yard 1 the orange is a old dodge from 40s the blue is cj5 from 50s and of course the old blazer Cad.great on place on earth that reminds me my oncle place back to Tunisia (north Africa)when I was Kid I spend all my school vacations to his place. He was a car anthousist had so many beautiful old vans from early years. Brian you are so inspiring person positiv and energetic. Actually am spending the most of my time to rewire my old truck for to make it ready to the summer. The last am gonna ask you is tha kill switch and as far I understand from your video is to let that battery negative post away from the business and those 2 post on the kill switch only for the battery positiv (such fuses and engine). I will try to send you some photos when the project is done and of course hoping not catching fires 😀 🙏. I love us panorama in the 80 was to Lockheed Georgia as a navigator on c130 Hercules. (Was flying nearly the hole US. Was driving route 66 and I wish to make it happen again . In the end I wish a good luck and am sorry for my English because am French speaking 😇good Luck

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@melvis2017 excellent, thank you! As for your question, yes, run the negative to your chassis/ground and place positive on switch. Be well!

[@JediDrift515]

Solid, straight to the point and very helpful!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@3ricsuper]

Does this stop the solar panels from charging the batteries as well? If so Is there a way to have the output off but still charge them

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Great question. Make sure to wire your charge controller directly to the battery, everything else runs through the switch. It's very helpful to be able to turn everything off, but still charge from solar, easy to do.

[@NavarreFloyd]

Should you disconnect the negative cable before you connect the positive side of the switch to the battery?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That’s a good idea if you’re working in an environment with lots of grounded metal, like with a car battery. In this situation, you’re OK leaving it connected while you install the switch.

[@TwoCaptainsOneShip]

Great video. Just got my camper yesterday and going to instal this ASAP! Thank you…

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Congratulations on the new camper! Feel free to reach out if any questions pop up.

[@TwoCaptainsOneShip]

@@DIYOutdoorLife will do. Already ordered the part and will have it tomorrow. Looks pretty straight up after watching the video. Have to find a piece of wire and a few connectors, I’ll find out the gauge when I get home from work today. Have a great weekend!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@TwoCaptainsOneShip you too!

[@db477]

Just checking, This only shuts off battery power going into the trailer, Correct? but will not interrupt shore power and still charges batteries? Great channel! Thank you.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

It will not interrupt shore power, but it will not allow shore power to charge the battery, this is completely completely shutting the battery off from the camper. Thanks for watching!

[@db477]

@@DIYOutdoorLife Thank you.

[@sunnyjogardner7525]

Great video! I find it very easy to follow along with you. I looked at my wires and there are no markings that I can see to determine what gauge they are. I am using an Interstate Deep Cycle Marine battery (91ah). Any suggestions?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

You'll probably be fine using 6awg. What camper do you have, I'll double check for you.

[@sunnyjogardner7525]

@@DIYOutdoorLife I have a 2017 ALiner scout lite, thank you!

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@sunnyjogardner7525 six AWG will be fine! Have fun with the project

[@sunnyjogardner7525]

@@DIYOutdoorLife Thank you so much!!

[@chasetan1059]

You’re videos are awesome! I do have a question though…a lot of sources say to hook a disconnect to the negative? (For safety) what say you?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

That’s incorrect and unfortunately a lot of people continue to say it. Both + & - switches work, you can even say that the difference between the two is marginal but there are more advantages to positive. Every single professional body that governs DC wiring mandates positive master switch. You see it in stock cars, military vehicles, aviation, NASA etc… The people that are switching negative, when the positive is available, are typically confusing the safety guidelines for installing a battery in a metal compartment like a car. You always remove the negative first, so that you don’t short circuit the chassis. They then assume that means you should switch the negative for safety but it’s a completely different scenario. this debate has going on in backyards for years but if you do a little homework, the debate doesn’t exist amongst professionals- master switch on positive, eliminate potential at the device, while maintaining a pathway to ground. This is the superior way to interrupt the circuit.

[@rickwashington5213]

I want to add a disconnect switch. I have my tounge jack wired directly to battery and also my trickle charger is connected by loop connectors to the post. Should I put all 3 positive connectors to the switch?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

It all depends, do you want all those things to turn off when disconnect switch is turned off? For instance, you might want to turn off your tongue jack but still allow the camper to trickle charge. Anything you leave in place on the battery will continue to be connected, even if the switch is in the off position. Anything you add to the switch, will be shut off when you turn the switch off . Hope this helps, reach out if you have any other questions .

[@rachelbudden5108]

Thank you so much Brian!!!! I did it!! I can’t believe I actually did it 😂

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Congratulations! I knew you could do it!

[@BULLETENVY]

Man what a solid video. I bet you would be a good dad. I felt like a dad was explaining the secrets of the universe to me.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate you swinging by!

[@ratlhed]

Great video. Btw do I leave the kill switch on or off when traveling (connected to 7pin harness from truck)? I want to make sure my batteries get trickle charged will traveling. Thanks.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Leave the switch on to charge what driving, off will stop the charge. Thanks for watching!

[@scrapcrafter]

Hi Brian, Our camper did NOT come with a kill switch but we realized that we had to stop the drain of the battery in storage and had one installed just like the one in your vid. I understand how to use when stored but what position should the switch be on when 1. When we're towing and on the road with the trailer plugged into the tow vehicle and 2. When we've dropped the trailer and camp and plugged into the camp provided power. I guess the question is is the battery being 'recharged' by towing and plugging into campground power? Thanks so much! Christine

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

It should be on when charging. Having it switched on, will allow the charge to take place. Your battery will charge when you’re plugged into shore power at the campground or home. It will also charge one driving, if your seven pin plug is properly installed. If your car is a tow package, or the seven pin was added aftermarket, it should charge while driving. Keep the switch on for those charges. Thanks for watching!

[@voyagerman22]

My camper van has an electronic switch for switching off DC to Van. Is this the same thing? Or would mechanical disconnect like in video be better? Thank you.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

If the switch disconnects all of your DC load, it's perfectly fine as is. If your van is in storage, you just wanna make sure that there's no parasitic draw on the battery.

[@jacoe33333]

Hi. On the yeti gold zero 1500x. If it has not been in use from new for two years. They did not charge it at all. Is it ruined?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Shouldn't be ruined, leave it plugged in for a while and see if it takes a charge

[@CosmoWeems]

Another good video Brian! Very useful. Thank YOU! =Cosmo

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you Cosmo! Keep me in the loop about getting together again...more Catskill sites to show you!

[@WanderingLess]

Well done with the explanation. If I have dual batteries does your instructions change?

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Nope, just make sure your switch is on the wire going to the camper. That will shut off both batteries.

[@WanderingLess]

Thank you. Of all the systems in an RV electrical scares me the most. I've been blown off a ladder because I trusted my dad to have shutoff the power at the panel. I second guess all things electric. Lol

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@WanderingLess I have had that happen as well, you don’t forget it!

[@chazt4863]

Outstanding demonstration and analysis! Thank you

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching.

[@danjohnson5550]

Your videos are great. In this case, would you use the placement in a dual battery setup? Instructions that came with my switch show placing the switch on the negative side.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Ignore those instructions...lol If you comb through the comments, I've explained why positive is best here, its the better way for this application. As for duel battery, you are placing this switch on the wire going to the camper, after the two batteries. By doing that, youll be switch both batteries off with one switch, same installation procedure. Thanks for watching DIYOL!

[@The_Wood]

Yes, sir, agreed . Very well explained in layman's terms. New sub here.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

I appreciate you swinging by, thanks for subbing!

[@MarkPallister-j1e]

What a great video! Thank you! I just purchased a camper with a two battery system. Do I just need to attach the jumper to one positive cable, and if so, do I just need a single cut off switch? I looked at your link for the cut off switch and they had one for two batteries. Do I need the double cut off switch, and two jumpers? Thanks for your help.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Thank you for watching, you're gonna be fine with one switch. Just placed the master switch on the wire going to your camper. In other words, your two batteries will be linked together with wires, one battery will have a red wire running to the camper, put your switch on that wire and it will disconnect both batteries.