Inverter Install/Fuse question

I have a 400W inverter I'm going to install in my truck. From what I can figure I'm going to need something like a 35A fuse. Does the fuse block under the hood have the capacity/ability to add something like this or do I need to add another fuse block or inline fuse? If I need to add something can anyone recommend something from local autoparts stores? Also is it best to ground on the chassis near the inverter or should I run it back to the battery?

Thanks

 

Fuse to the size of the wire from battery to inverter, not the expected current draw of the inverter. I would run the positive connection to the battery, but that's me. Was a 400 Watt inverter an option for your model year? If yes, then there should be wires you could use. If no, then I think you will have to run wire. I would go with a car stereo fuse block, easy to find, easy to replace. No need to run the ground back to battery, just make sure you have a good connection.

 

This ^^

 

Hmmm not sure what to do now...I wired it up yesterday with 12 guage wire because the cables that came with the inverter were 12 guage. From what I can tell 12 guage wire is only good for up to 20A? I put a 30A fuse in it so I guess I need to put a smaller fuse or run some 8 or 10 guage wire?

 

My guess is the supplied wires were short? The manufacturer may have been relying on limited, relatively short -term use and short wires to handle the current flow. But if you want long term safety and reliability, then I would go back with 8 Gauge.

 

Gonna go do that before I burn my taco. Thanks for the help!

 

X2 the manufactures get away with it by using short leads (very little loss) any thing over what they use you need to upgrade. You'll need at least a 35 amp fuse and put it as close to the the power source as possible to protect your wire run.