Power Inverter

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Feb 22, 2003 | 12:17 AM

Hurricane_Niner7

Thread Starter

Freshman User

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 47

Likes: 0

From: Ft. Bragg, NC

Power Inverter

Hello,

I'm looking to replace my little 400W Power Inverter with a Coleman PMP2000 with 2000W continuous/4000W peak.

My old one draws a low enough amount of current to plug into the lighter/power point. I'm not going to even attempt to put the new in there.

I've read a few posts throughout the different FTE forums describing how to get cables through the firewall to connect directly to the battery.

Other than obviously keeping clear of the fan, is there anything else I should dodge in the engine compartment when routing wires.

Also which battery should I go to and are there any specifics to the cable I should use (it doesn't come with them according to the pictures of the box on the web).

Thanks for any help.

Hopefully, one day I'll learn (and understand) enough about my truck to offer help to others rather than just asking for it.

1LT Anthony Somma

Oxford White '03 F-250 XL, CrewCab, 7.3L PSD, 8' Bed, 4x4, Automatic
All stock except toolbox, RhinoLiner, and bedcover

Feb 22, 2003 | 12:29 AM

PSD_Power

More Turbo

Joined: Mar 2002

Posts: 633

Likes: 0

From: Oregon USA

Power Inverter

I can't really help with any of your questions but I can say good choice on a power inverter. That is the one I use in my fiver trailer.

Feb 22, 2003 | 04:25 AM

damonlan

Senior User

Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 277

Likes: 0

From: San Rafael, NM

Power Inverter

Try routing the 12 or 10 guage wires (monster cable or similar) through the cab vent port. You won't have to do any major work, just remove some interior paneling. Underneath, just make sure to avoid anything that can get hot and do not place wires where they can get pinched, twisted or cut (this includes low points where rocks can fly up and cut into them).

It is also a good idea to install a high current 'knife switch' right where the wires come off the battery. Bolted to the body or chasis. If something shorts, you want to have a quick out before your battery drains.

You can use zip ties to make the job nice and clean. Try to get the zip ties with UV dopant. They seem to be more heat tollerant and will last longer even though not exposed to direct sunlight.

Edit:
Rule of thumb: when comparing batteries of similar price and/or specs(amp hours, cold cranking amps etc) always go with the heavier battery.

Last edited by damonlan; Feb 22, 2003 at 04:28 AM.

Feb 22, 2003 | 05:32 AM

martyfowler

Freshman User

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 41

Likes: 0

From: goobertown, ar( no seriuo

Power Inverter

you may need wire larger than 10 gauge. i have a 700 watt/ 1400 watt power inverter and according to the instructions that came with it i had to run 8 gauge wire. your instructions should come with a chart to show you what size wire to use, depending on the distance you have to go. the longer the wire the more voltage drop you have, and therefore you have to use larger wire to compensate. hope this helps.

Feb 22, 2003 | 09:53 AM

xanthias

Tuned

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 335

Likes: 1

From: Houston, TX

Power Inverter

If you really want a professional-looking installation, sleeve your cabling in some of the black split wire loom (radio shack has this stuff by the foot in various diameters).

Happily, with routing, the factory does a lot of your thinking for you, just follow and tack onto (with zip ties) the factory runs. You didn't mention where in the cab you were placing the inverter?

Also, your power wire run might require a fusible link, but if so, that should be included in your inverter kit materials...

Feb 22, 2003 | 10:27 AM

redranger1

Posting Guru

Joined: Dec 2001

Posts: 1,110

Likes: 0

From: Iberia, USA

Power Inverter

somethin to always keep in mind about the choice of wireis that the further the distance you go, the smaller guage wire you will need. i know there is a chart to go by, just not sure what it says. i would figure the distance that you need and then get that amount of wire. test it thoroghly first before you install it to make sure that it doesnt get hot or "jump" when you put it under the most extreme of loads. if it does either, you need a bigger cable.

Feb 22, 2003 | 01:18 PM

Hurricane_Niner7

Thread Starter

Freshman User

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 47

Likes: 0

From: Ft. Bragg, NC

Power Inverter

Thanks for the help so far.

I'm not quite sure where it's gonna be installed yet. I haven't compared the size specs against a ruler inside the truck. If it'll fit, it'll be going where the current one is mounted...under the front passenger seat.

With dual batteries on the PSD, which one should I connect it to?

I haven't acually bought the unit yet. I'm waiting for just the right auction on e-bay to show up.

Thanks again for the help,
1LT Anthony Somma

Oxford White '03 F-250 XL, CrewCab, 7.3L PSD, 8' Bed, 4x4, Automatic
All stock except toolbox, RhinoLiner, and bedcover