12V Drop on Bumper

[Reinhold]

A 12V drop on the Bumper is an option for $66. I know it is easier to route wires when built, but trying to think what this would be used for?

Thanks for your input,
Richard

[rubicon327]

Power for a temporary rear view camera used when backing up? Power outlet for a 12V tire inflator with cord length that could reach both sides? Just curious if this is a branch off existing 12V power line serving other uses or dedicated line with its own fuse in the power center. The latter is a much better way to handle it especially if you planned to use something with a higher load like a compressor. Should have a dedicated 15A rated circuit.

FWIW I added a marine grade 12V outlet on the front driver's side. We use it for an aeration pump for bait when fishing and to power a transfer pump to assist filling the onboard fresh water tank from containers. Not hard to add especially if your placement is close to the power center.
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...let-12379.html

[Eggscape]

I am sure the wiring would be to thin to input external solar but you should be able to run a light duty air compressor for tires or water toys. Maybe to hook up a light in a rear box or an external trouble light.

Edit…Rubicon beat me to the reply.

[kstock11]

Rather than spend $66 for this (although it wasn’t an option when I bought), I added a couple wires to a 7 pin plug to use the 12 volt coming off my car battery. (Not an original thought by me) My air compressor is 12 volts, but higher amperage than a cigarette lighter plug could handle. Plug in and the air compressor attaches via alligator clips.

[rubicon327]

Originally Posted by kstock11

My air compressor is 12 volts, but higher amperage than a cigarette lighter plug could handle. Plug in and the air compressor attaches via alligator clips.

Good point. I was eluding to this in my post. With Viair compressors for example only a few of the smallest models they still make are appropriate for a 15A rated 12V socket. All others should be direct to the battery with alligator clips.

[HABBERDABBER]

Originally Posted by kstock11

Rather than spend $66 for this (although it wasn’t an option when I bought), I added a couple wires to a 7 pin plug to use the 12 volt coming off my car battery. (Not an original thought by me) My air compressor is 12 volts, but higher amperage than a cigarette lighter plug could handle. Plug in and the air compressor attaches via alligator clips.

When I added the 7 pin receptacle on my van, (kit also came with an attached 4 pin receptacle) a relay was provided and wired into the circuit. If the engine is off and key moved to off, no juice at the 7 pin. Not a big deal, but some systems may have this relay and change your expectations. I think I bought the wiring kit from eTrailer.

The relay would prevent the tow vehicle from a discharged battery if something in the Escape (refrig)? were drawing a current and still connected to the trailer.

[tractors1]

I added a 12V next to the rear awning mount so I could use a long extension cord with my 12V fan at the campground table. Works well for keeping mosquitos away even on low. Also had the 120VAC outlet moved back there so wifey can run whatever awning lights she' like to run.

[Eggscape]

As for getting some high amp power for the outside of your trailer…I took advantage of the seldom used high amp 12 volt supply line to the fridge and installed a dual 12 volt socket there for a few bucks. You can see how easy it is to install here in this link:
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post284919

I also use the front trailer 7 pin connector to access the battery power. I made a break-out box that plugs in and supplies two styles of 12 volt connectors. You can see what I did here:
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post393177

[Reinhold]

Appreciate all the great ideas, pictures and links.... No end to the fun things that can be done!

Richard

[bborzell]

When we finalized our build sheet (picked up 21C 2 weeks ago), the 12V wire drop toward the rear bumper was no longer being offered.

Something about not surviving the Easter Egg list cut.

[Vermilye]

Originally Posted by bborzell

When we finalized our build sheet (picked up 21C 2 weeks ago), the 12V wire drop toward the rear bumper was no longer being offered.

Something about not surviving the Easter Egg list cut.

Shouldn't be too hard to add to a 21C since the converter/power center is there. Of course, you have to get up the nerve to make a hole in the shell!

[LSmith]

I am planning to add a 12v outlet to my rear bumper for my 12v electronic cooler that is uses mainly for beverages so we are not opening our fridge so often.

[Eggscape]

Originally Posted by smith.lynnis@gmail.com

I am planning to add a 12v outlet to my rear bumper for my 12v electronic cooler that is uses mainly for beverages so we are not opening our fridge so often.

Welcome to the forum.

Good plan…A cooler style can be much more efficient when it comes to multiple openings. I don’t think many people realize how much cold air is replaced with warm air every time they open the normal fridge door.

[LSmith]

Originally Posted by Eggscape

Welcome to the forum.

Good plan…A cooler style can be much more efficient when it comes to multiple openings. I don’t think many people realize how much cold air is replaced with warm air every time they open the normal fridge door.

Yes, our absorption fridge starts to struggle once the temperature gets up to about 30C.