Anyone upgrade the factory inverter?

I have a 1200 watt inverter that I'd love to replace the stock one with and add an additional outlet in the cab. Has anyone done this before or have some ideas on where to start?

Thanks!

 

good question im wanting to do the samething

 

1200watt inverter in the stock location is going to overheat.

 

it doesn't need to be in the stock location.. I just want the benefits of the upgraded power to the outlet in the bed as well as add an outlet in the cab.

 

If I remember correctly the factory bed plug isnt wired for anything heavier.

 

In previous threads on this topic, others have opined that anything larger would really necessitate dual batteries and a larger alternator. The feeling I got from the discussions was that it would be more cost effective to buy a gas generator.

 

thanks guys!

 

This would be an interesting (and ambitious) mod project. I think it could be done, my thoughts...

Add a deep cycle battery and an inverter to run accessories, tv, microwave etc. there should be enough room for them in the engine compartment. If you used a clutch type alternator it could be engaged and disengaged so lesson/eliminate the additional parasitic drag on the engine when not in use.

This second alternator would charge the 2nd battery to run the inverter The second alternator would need an Automatic Charging Relay. Electronically you'll want to keep the inverter battery and the starting battery completely separate.

With this setup you could actually leave the existing inverter setup alone and run new wiring to the plugs wherever you want them. Pretty easy to put one inside one of the rear bed storage cubbies. Inside, maybe stick it into the center console at the front of the center bin?

Interesting. It could be done. Would it be worth it? I can't answer that.

 

Pretty good answer to the how to part!

 

This http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/226311-inverter-questions-3.html is a good thread to get answers.

 

upgrade how about remove....

 

I continuously think about this. Adding a 5,000W pure sine inverter. Could wire directly to battery with physical switch - and run a separate AC line. Would need this only while driving to power items being hauled. Also considering a step-up converter for DCC and going that way (batteries and separate inverter). OEM inverter is useless.

 

so, on boats, we used them alot. Also, we had solar chargers for the deep cycle batteries used to power the inverter, so depending on how much power youre using, and if you wanted to set up a static solar array once youre stopped, it could be done. Not gonna be cheap though..

 

You would need one hell of an alternator and battery setup to run 5000W, 5000W @ 12V is over 400 Amps

 

The toy dealer said add the additional battery and a dual battery isolator and you shouldn’t need to upgrade the alternator. your thoughts. I want to add a 3000w sine wave

 

If your planning to be using all 3000W for any length of time your gona need alot more alternator, 3000 watts at 12v is 250 amps and at 14v it's about 215 amps.

 

I run my 3k off a NorthStar group 31 (supplied by CTEK 250) mounted in the bed to power a microwave.