12volt outlet install

[Frank]

Hi all, I am after a thread or advice on installing a couple of 12v outlets on the outside of our 16.49.1 Expanda. Have used various searches on this site but can't seem to find what I am after. Purpose of the outlets is for an LED strip and to power a purpose built portable stereo (car stereo in a home built cabinet) away from the van.
Any advice is appreciated

Frank

 

[hamish22]

Hi Frank

I installed a number of 12 volt outlets in my van inside and out.
I tapped into the external outlet already there, was able to access it through the wardrobe and ran cable to rear of van to a power box I made. From that I went straight through the floor via the taillight access and attached a dual waterproof 12v outlet underneath my rear bumper so i have 12v power for my rear annexe.

If you want pics I can post them!
cheers

 

[hamish22]

Pics of interior 12v box on bottom of page 2 in my van thread here
http://www.expandasdownunder.com/threads/finally-after-3-weeks-ownership.3492/page-2

If you want exterior ones I can take some tomorrow for you!

 

[Frank]

Hi Hamish 22, thanks for the replies mate, but I don't have an existing 12v outlet anywhere in the van or outside the van. The only 12v in the van as far as I am aware are the lights...
Cheers
Frank

 

[bigcol]

@Frank looks like you need a trip down to your local Auto Parts Store or stop in at an Auto Electricians shop, and buy some nice 2 core cable - I think 8mm? (thats what I always use on the car) or do you have a "12Volt Shop" near by? or Batteries Plus? they will help you get the right gear you will need - even Jaycar should be able to help you
then run the cable from you Battery to wherever you are wanting to put the plug - through cupboards, or underneath the Van itself - tis not a hard job, just time consuming

how much wire will I need - depends on from where to where - then add maybe 500mm extra
what plugs will I need - the one for external, plus what ever else you want to put in
also need some crimps & crimping tool for the Battery end
if you dont have the tools - could be expensive for the first use - but after that you will be right

as I said - stop into one of those shops and get some ideas from them


cheers

 

[Frank]

Thanks Bigcol. Love advice explained this way. Got everything except the wiring and the outlets. Wife is off to Gallipoli this weekend so looks like I will have a few mods to keep me busy during her absence.
Thanks again

Frank

 

[bigcol]

your Missus is lucky @Frank
I've been wanting to go to Gallipoli since as long as I can remember - had a few friends who have been.

yeah mate, just take your time if your not too certain - the old, "measure twice - cut once" also applies to wiring work........
double, triple check everything before you start

cheers

 

[Bmhdg76]

Just remember if you are wiring anything directly to your battery to put an appropriate size fuse on the positive cable as close to the battery as you can. The fuse has to be acceptable for the cable used not the appliance. So if you use 10amp rated cable don't use a 20amp fuse... Would have to be a 10amp fuse maximum. I know it sounds like common sense but have seen it done.

BJ.