Power Outlet in the Truck Bed

Hey Everyone,

Sorry in advance for the dumb question but I plan to use a circular saw and have it plugged into the power outlet in the truck bed.

Do I have to press the button on the left hand side of the steering wheel (I think it's some sort of 110V to 220 V converter)?

I'm really sorry if this is a dumb question. Also should I keep the truck running to keep power going to the outlet?

Thank you in advance.

 

Yep, that button turns on the 12v -> 120v inverter that powers the outlet. It has two lights. Click the button once and you get one light 100w. Click it again and you get both lights and the full 400w. Needs to be running and in park (or have the ebrake on if a manual) for the 400w setting.

Yes, you should have the truck running or you'll drain the battery very quickly.

I'd check the power requirements on your tools before relying on the inverter, like i said it only supplies 400w and a circular saw can easily go above that during startup and any significant cutting.

 

Roger that, thank you very much!

It's to cut a few pieces of 4x4 wood for easier transport, that is all.

Thanks again, I appreciate it!

 

No problem. For what it's worth i was able to run an angle grinder on it w/ cutoff wheel trying to cut off my stuck hitch pin. It "worked" eventually but took forever. the grinder really struggled with the small power supply so i had to take very slow shallow cuts or it bogged down too much. That outlet is really only meant for small things like work lights and battery chargers. Cutting a 4x4 is asking a lot from it. Be careful not to fry your tools or the inverter.

 

Anything over 3.3A isn’t going to work.
I haven’t used that outlet since the first time I tried it.
A DeWalt saws-all sure won’t run off it.

 

People still have tools with cords?

 

If you're broke like me, yes.

 

I still have a few. But I’ve mostly converted to battery.

 

I’m just a simple DIY'er on the weekends so I don't use power tools enough to switch yet, but dang, those cordless ones where the batteries are interchangeable sure are handy!

 

They are definitely handy.
The circular saw and oscillating tool are nice.
But the batteries are what get you. $$$

 

I mean...Batteries are expensive. These days I'd rather install an ARB compressor and 15-gallon tank, keep keep some air tools and tire chucks handy. Y'know, preparedness and all. Of course then i'd be dumb not to chuck front and rear lockers into it. I'm a sensible man after all.