Did you use the relay with your HitchCam?

[mountainbiker]

The HitchCam comes with a relay. The instructions say "If the HitchCam is going to be installed on a GM vehicle that is not driven regularly [like an extend stay in the field or sitting at the airport], there is a risk of battery drain ... [and] we recommend the installation of the ... relay kit."

As the instructions are suppose to cover all GM vehicles, they (I suspect) are a bit generic or slightly different for the H3. Here are some questions I have

Did you install install the relay?

Is the ignition wire easily located? Did you tap it under the fuse panel? Was it black or pink?

Is the trailer power easily located? Was it under the panel too? Was it red?

[mountainbiker]

HitchCam got back to me really quick. They sent me a specific sheet for the H3 with wire locations and colors. (The sheet I originally had was for the H2.) Also, the relay kit should be used as the the unit is constantly drawing power even if the monitor is switched to only display an image when reversing. It looks like the relay cuts the power to the (red wire at the) trailer hitch socket when the ignition is not on. Otherwise, the socket will always provide power.

[f5fstop]

What is the parasitic current draw when not used? The relay certainly won't hurt that's for sure.

[mountainbiker]

Originally Posted by f5fstop

What is the parasitic current draw when not used?

HitchCam didn't say, and I failed to ask. However, you sure wouldn't think it is much, and I probably couldn't even measure it with my (analog) meter. The other option the instructions mentioned is that you could unplug the HitchCam camera plug from the trailer hitch socket.

I am or at least will be away from the H3 for extended periods of time, so I don't want the hassle of a weakened battery. LOL- we remember my battery pains at beginning of my H3's life. Hmmmm- what to do, what to do?

[f5fstop]

if you will be parking it for a long period, i recommend disconnecting the battery, or purchasing one of those solar chargers that trickle charge the battery via the power accessory plug. they put out about an amp in bright sunlight, but more than enough to negate any parasitic drain from computers and hitch cams

I have a Hitchcam on my H3. But the longest I've left the vehicle sitting unused was 2 weeks straight and no battery problems so far.