Hey everyone, I was just hooking up the boat to my new '01 Screw yesterday. After having to completely rewire the trailer lights (for some reason an annual process) I saw that there are two relays that come with the truck. The manual stated that I have to put these relays in the distribution box under the hood when towing. What exactly are these two relays doing? One says something about trailer back up and the other one is something about battery charge. I am pretty ignorant when it comes down to auto electrical stuff. Are these relays going to cause any difference in vehicle performance and is there any reason I should not leave them in the distribution box permanently (I rarely tow anything)?
Patrick

 

The relays... looks like a 1" rectangular box w/ 2 threaded studs?

If memory serves, the relay for the battery charge is if you are towing a recreational camper and want to charge that battery, power the fridge, etc. while driving. If all you will EVER do is a boat, I don't think you need it but if there is a chance of a camper, I'd put it in.

Pete

 

Thanks for the tip... Looks like I might be towing a friend's pop up this week perhaps this could come in handy!
Patrick

 

If the trailer has four-pin flat connecter, you don't need the relays. If the trailer has the 7-pin connecter, you do.

Either way, if you have the relays anyway, just install them and be done with it. It won't hurt to install them.