Which fuse to pull when towing

[Murphcrud]

Hi guys,
I have a 2007 Nissan Versa, manual transmission, that I am towing 4 down.  I have been using the ACC position on the ignition freeing up the steering wheel and taking it out of gear.  No problem with this idea as I usually start the vehicle, allowing it to run for 20 minutes or so and charging the battery for next day towing.  I have heard about removing a fuse that will eliminate battery drain.  Which fuse is to be removed??  Does the key have to remain in the ignition (ACC setting) after fuse is removed?  What does the removal of this fuse do to the electrical system?
Just inquiring as I would like to have a second option on towing my vehicle.  I have also heard about a third option of running the electrical through the house batteries.  I do not want to do this option.  Other options are also available but I am only interested in information on the fuse removal scenario.

 

[grashley]

Not sure about the need to remove a fuse.  I assume there is no OFF position.  In ACC, there will be power to the radio, clock, maybe A/C fan.  If those are all off, there may not be too much drain.

I doubt you CAN remove the key from the ACC position. 

If it has a chip in the key, get a new key cut, but NOT programmed.  Use it for towing.  It works fine to unlock doors and releasing the steering lock, but is useless to start the car because it is not recognized by the system.  Theft deterrent key.

 

[Phil-T]

If you can do as grashley suggested and get a non-programmed key cut for unlocking the steering, that is a good start.  Removing a fuse, or installing a battery disconnect may reset computer settings such as saved radio settings, seat positions, etc.  There may be some electronics that require power while being towed.  Better to check with Nissan on that.
Doesn't the owner's manual have info about dingy towing?  They usually spell out the recommended settings.

 

[Murphcrud]

If you can do as grashley suggested and get a non-programmed key cut for unlocking the steering, that is a good start.  Removing a fuse, or installing a battery disconnect may reset computer settings such as saved radio settings, seat positions, etc.  There may be some electronics that require power while being towed.  Better to check with Nissan on that.
Doesn't the owner's manual have info about dingy towing?  They usually spell out the recommended settings.

No, there is very little information on dingy towing in the manual.  I will contact Nissan on this matter and also have a key cut as mentioned.

 

[ChasA]

The reason for leaving the key in the "acc" position is usually to keep the steering unlocked so the towed can follow the motorhome.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

The purpose of having the key in the ignition and ACC position is to unlock the steering column so the front wheels can steer freely. Not all vehicles have locking steering columns, but odds are a 2007 Nissan does. If so, the key MUST be used to unlock the steering.

You could probably install a battery disconnect device on the Versa and simply shut off all power after getting it set to tow. The remote control types are readily available at auto parts stores and online, anywhere from $50-$200. Simple mechanical switches that require you to open the hood to switch are quite a bit cheaper.  Here's one remote:
https://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Disconnect-Latching-Anti-theft-Electromagnetic/dp/B01IVNE9MC

You could also add a Toad Charge unit that sends power from the motorhome to the toad battery to keep it charged. Simple and works well.
http://www.lslproducts.net/ToadChargePage.html

 

[Murphcrud]

Hello again,
As I previously stated, I AM ONLY INTERESTED in learning which fuse I can remove to accomplish the battery drain.  The key in ignition will have to stay, which I understand. but I will have a non chipped key cut, for this purpose.
Which fuse do I pull????  Does anyone know?  Has anyone done this before?

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

The "which fuses" question can only be answered in the context of a specific year/make/model of vehicle, i.e. a 2007 Nissan Versa manual tranny in this case.  Unless someone here happens to tow that exact same vehicle, we won't be able to answer that.  That's why I suggested the alternative of pulling ALL the fuses, i.e. adding a battery disconnect.

Otherwise, and lacking any info from Nissan, it's largely a matter of observing what is powered when the key is in ACC and locating the appropriate fuse in the panel.

 

[Arch Hoagland]

Would pulling a fuse disable your supplemental toad braking system? 

 

[Murphcrud]

The "which fuses" question can only be answered in the context of a specific year/make/model of vehicle, i.e. a 2007 Nissan Versa manual tranny in this case.  Unless someone here happens to tow that exact same vehicle, we won't be able to answer that.  That's why I suggested the alternative of pulling ALL the fuses, i.e. adding a battery disconnect.

"Otherwise, and lacking any info from Nissan, it's largely a matter of observing what is powered when the key is in ACC and locating the appropriate fuse in the panel."

That was also my thought.  There aren't that many fuses to try.  I will give this a shot.
That also was the reason why I was quite specific with the make of the vehicle, I was just hoping someone had the answer.
Thanks Gary.

 

[Murphcrud]

Would pulling a fuse disable your supplemental toad braking system?

Possibly.  I guess that I will have to find out the good old manual way ---- try it.

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

As an alternative, you could try using Google to locate a Nissan owner's forum and post over there.

I have a Ford F250, and I post in a Ford Truck forum rather than here when I need answers about my truck.

 

[Murphcrud]

Excellent idea.  I will source the Nissan forum.  Thank you