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Inverter install question


98greenmachine

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Hey all, I'm looking to put an inverter in my 98 B3000 similar to the ones on the newer Tacomas. I'm not looking for something huge, just enough to power a battery charger for cordless drills, maybe a circular saw or some work lights for out in the woods. But I'm not to sure on how to do that so any advice on choosing one and installing would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance.
 


Mark_88

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I looked into this a few years ago and it's pretty straight forward. Most of them have a chart that lists what they can handle and unless you are using corded power tools you can probably get away with a low wattage unit. I would suggest at least 500 watts just to have a bit of reserve or 1,000 watt in the event that you want to run a corded sawzall or something like that.

They are easy to connect but you may need to buy wires and connectors if you want to go inside the cab or mounted in the back...

Really just a matter of how much you want to spend and where you want to put it...

Here is a link to one of many sites that offer these for sale.

http://www.truckntow.com/cab-comfort/inverters-converters.html
 
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Yeah, it isn't hard. You just need to run a power and ground to the unit.
 
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Just watch your load rating. Chargers for battery tools shouldn't need much and LED or flourescent work lights don't use much. But if you want to run a corded circular saw, that's a big jump in load. I would recommend using a battery-powered circular saw and just have the ability to charge it's battery.
 
wizkid00104

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Agreed. And if you wire it straight to the battery, make sure you fuse it. There may be a fuse on the 120 side, but you'll also want to fuse the 12v side. And make sure you use the proper gauge wire. You can find charts online for the size wire you should use for D.C. Amps.


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If you have Dewalt tools, Dewalt makes a 12V charger, no power inverter needed just plugs into a standard 12V socket.

Not sure if any other brand cordless tool manufacturer offers 12V car chargers but Dewalt seems to have the right idea for mobile use.
 
Doofy

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Yes, use the heaviest gauge of wire possible. Avoid sharp edges (I ran mine in heater hose for protection). I installed a 2800 watt unit that can run my well pump and heaters in the house for when the power goes out. I also can run all corded power tools and especially enjoy electric chainsaws (easier on the ears).
 
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