12v Socket install

After reading through a few threads on what others have done it seems pretty straight forward.. (i think)
I want to add something like this in the back of my truck.

$15 [Upgraded] Tent Type Panel Two Hole, Quick Charge 3.0 Dual USB Car Charger+12V/24V Cigarette Lighter Socket for Car Motorcycle Boat Marine ATV RV

https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Cha...volt+power+outlet&qid=1659628282&sr=8-1-spons

I think I can run the red wire to the positive with a fuse and the black to ground. Seems pretty simple. Is that so?? I know Ill have to be careful how I run the wires, etc but as far as making the connections does that seem right?

Thanks!

 

Sounds like you got it pretty well figured out, I will say keep your fuse as close to your battery connection as is feasible and use the appropriate size fuse for the size of wire you are using.
I also see it looks like that setup has LEDs and a meter on it so you will probably want a switch on it or use a relay to turn it on and off with the ignition to prevent battery drain when not in use.

 

I am not sure about adding a relay. I want to be able to use it when the truck is off. I was thinking I could use the on/off switch that is on the 12v charger. I am I wrong to think that?

Thanks.

 

Yea that would be fine as long as it can be turned off when not in use.

 

Seems as how the USB has an on off built in you should be good (there will be a TINNY parasitic draw as its not a physical disconnect, but rather a circuit one with a push button but it will be so tiny it wont matter, way less than the parasitic draw from the various ecus of the truck when parked.)

You could just do a single 12v socket and when you want pop a 12v socket (cig lighter) to usb adapter of your choice in there when you need it. No need for an extra switch, no USB ports out in the elements when you dont want etc.

12v constant on socket in the bed of my truck (in the drive side bed cubby) is probably the most used mod i have done to the truck, right there with LED bed lights and USB power (regardless if the truck is running or not) in the center console.

FYI there is a great grounding point on the top of the frame easily accessible from the driver side rear wheel well, nice and close to the drive side cubby hole.

 

It's considerably more money, and panel mount, but Blue Sea Systems makes some nice 12V/USB/voltmeter combinations with a built-in power on/off switch.

$73 Blue Sea Systems 4366 Water-Resistant Accessory Panel with Circuit Breaker, 12V Socket, Dual USB Charger, Mini Voltmeter, Black

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Sea-Water-Resistant-Accessory/dp/B07PP1V3L5/

 

Thanks.. Ill look for the grounding point..I saw them on here the other day when I was looking into this.

Should I use 10 gauge wire and 25-30 amp fuse? Not exactly sure what Ill want to charge but would rather have it and not need it then need it and not have it.

 

That's about the right size wire for that size fuse but a typical 12v outlet is only good for around 10-15 amps so just be aware of that.

 

Yup thats a great plan as far as wire and fuse goes. Keep the fuse as close as you can to the battery. FYI a standard fuse works well with regular female spade connectors, no need for a fancy fuse holder unless you want it. (saves $ if you already have a standard fuse and spade connectors laying around).

 

I doubt most cigarette plugs will do more than 10 amps. They're useless.

I'd recommend anderson powerpoles.