Needing a Heavy Duty 12v Power Outlet

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Hopkins 12-Volt Power Socket with Power Wire and Fuse Assembly

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$21.34

12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

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$30.38

Question:

I need a heavy duty 12v power outlet to put in the bed of my truck to power up one of the electric coolers. Also would like to put one in my cargo trailer but didnt know if the power from the 7 way plugs is heavy enough to supply adequate power? Only the 4 standard wires are being used out of the 7-way so the center power is available.

asked by: JR

Expert Reply:

The best option would be to use the Roadmaster 12-volt Outlet Kit, # RM-9332.

This kit is was designed to be used as a way to connect the 12-volt connection on supplemental braking systems used when flat towing a vehicle behind a motor coach. What I like about this kit is it has a 20 amp fuse wire inline of the outlet. The outlet has a two wire application, one to ground and the other, with the inline fuse, to 12-volt power.

Power supply to the trailer can be run through the 12-volt accessory power wire of your 7-way, but amp draw will be a factor. Wiring one of the Roadmaster outlets to the 12-volt wire side of your trailer plug can be done and with the inline fuse safely. However, if your accessory will be drawing more than 20 amp, an issue in power supply and safety could happen. You cannot use a higher amp fuse due to the possibility of circuit meltdown or fire.

expert reply by: Jared P