Adding a 110VAC power supply
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Freshman User
Joined: Dec 2012
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Adding a 110VAC power supply
I own a 2012 F250 SD XLT 6.7 L -
I need to supply about 250W of AC power for instrumentation and radios I carry. I plan to build the capability into the truck instead of my usual kludge of wires and such running all over the place.
The power is modest so a 25A circuit is adequate. I am a EE so I know the electrical issues; wire gauge, insulation, heat dissipation, etc.
What I don't know is the best way to do it. Upfitter switches seem to be a good choice inasmuch as the inverter can be turned off when not in use. While the installation of these switches is a separate project, I will likely do both at the same time for obvious reasons.
I would like to have the AC power plugs available at the back of the center console, I have the split bench front seat with fold-down console. I have several marine AC inverters that are suitable; mountable, ventilated, reliable, remote controlled and full sine output.
So here is my quest; has anyone done this? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
I will do this and if there is an interest I will post the results here.
Mike
I need to supply about 250W of AC power for instrumentation and radios I carry. I plan to build the capability into the truck instead of my usual kludge of wires and such running all over the place.
The power is modest so a 25A circuit is adequate. I am a EE so I know the electrical issues; wire gauge, insulation, heat dissipation, etc.
What I don't know is the best way to do it. Upfitter switches seem to be a good choice inasmuch as the inverter can be turned off when not in use. While the installation of these switches is a separate project, I will likely do both at the same time for obvious reasons.
I would like to have the AC power plugs available at the back of the center console, I have the split bench front seat with fold-down console. I have several marine AC inverters that are suitable; mountable, ventilated, reliable, remote controlled and full sine output.
So here is my quest; has anyone done this? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
I will do this and if there is an interest I will post the results here.
Mike
Lead Driver
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 5,372
Likes: 108
From: Northern Indiana
Do some searching. I can't remember the guys forum name but one of the brothers here did a awesome write up on doing just this not to long ago. His was a pretty big install also with lots of pics.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 543
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From: Northern VA
I'm no expert but I have done a little bit of custom wiring on my '09. You should be able to buy the upfitter switches in a kit direct from Ford. Install should be pretty easy and it probably comes with instructions. The instructions will tell you that the different switches have different ratings on their fuses. You are an EE, you know why this is important. Problem 1 solved.
They build the trucks with a bunch of extra wires under the dash and under the hood specifically for add-ons like this. This is a huge help as all you have to do is run a hot wire from your inverter to the correct wire under the dash for the switch you want and then add a ground wire. Mount your equipment where you need it and you are all set.
I have a set of battery cables run from my battery to the front bumper and the rear bumper by way of a solenoid (kit from Warn) to power my winch which is in a cradle that mounts in either my front or rear hitch receiver. I also have a power inverter that I can plug into these cables for emergency or remote 110V power. The upfitter switch turns on my solenoid which sends full battery power to my winch cables. This way those long cables aren't hot all the time. Hopefully, this helps you.
They build the trucks with a bunch of extra wires under the dash and under the hood specifically for add-ons like this. This is a huge help as all you have to do is run a hot wire from your inverter to the correct wire under the dash for the switch you want and then add a ground wire. Mount your equipment where you need it and you are all set.
I have a set of battery cables run from my battery to the front bumper and the rear bumper by way of a solenoid (kit from Warn) to power my winch which is in a cradle that mounts in either my front or rear hitch receiver. I also have a power inverter that I can plug into these cables for emergency or remote 110V power. The upfitter switch turns on my solenoid which sends full battery power to my winch cables. This way those long cables aren't hot all the time. Hopefully, this helps you.
Tuned
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 387
Likes: 0
From: Limestone County
The only issue with install up fitters after the fact is the Alternator. an up grade may be in order. The upgrade install is not that hard removing the dash to gain access for the switch module and relays did this on an 06-super duty.
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Freshman User
Joined: Dec 2012
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Are you aware of any video's or HOWTO to get into the dash? I made the mistake of trying to install a radio into my Chev Trailblazer and the gadgetry holding the dash together never held right again. Strange little clips that seem to need some special tool to successfully open and not break.
Any insight will be gratefully accepted.
Any insight will be gratefully accepted.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 119
Likes: 7
From: FL
I installed a 1500W inverter under my rear (X-cab) seat. I used #3 up-fitter switch to turn on/off a relay. Do you have up-fitter switches in a '12? The inverter I bought would drain the battery even though the it was switched off. I do not recommend Ramsond inverters for many reasons, but i'm stuck now. The good thing about using the up-fitter switch, (if you have them) is power is switched off once the ignition is off regardless of up-fitter or inverter switch position. The relay I used, is a 200amp continuous power type. I did not use a kit for the up-fitter connection. This link was all I used; there maybe a more up-to-date bulletin for a '12. Depending on where you want to install the inverter you should not need to pull apart the dash to access the wires.
https://www.fleet.ford.com/truckbbas/non-html/Q162.pdf Most of the wires are located around the steering column.
BTW, the 25A you are using.... is that DC to the inverter or AC from inverter?
https://www.fleet.ford.com/truckbbas/non-html/Q162.pdf Most of the wires are located around the steering column.
BTW, the 25A you are using.... is that DC to the inverter or AC from inverter?
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