Can PowerMax 45 Amp AC To DC 12V Converter Be Used In Cargo Trailer Conversion Without Power Center?

Updated 01/13/2026 | Published 01/06/2026

Question:

Can the 45 amp PowerMax PM34VR be used in a small trailer or cargo conversion without a full power center? Probably just have a small fuse block or something cheap.

asked by: Dylan

Expert Reply:

Hey Dylan. That’s actually one of the most common uses for the PowerMax AC to DC 12v converter # PM34VR. In small trailers, cargo conversions, and custom builds, it’s normal to have a standalone DC fuse panel and converter instead of a full RV power center. The # PM34VR can feed a DC fuse panel directly to power your 12V loads and charge the battery when you’re plugged into shore power.

What you don’t want to do is run the converter to the loads by itself without any downstream fusing. The fuse panel is what protects each 12V circuit and keeps everything safe from voltage spikes or short circuits.

If you already have a fuse block picked out or installed, you’re on the right track. What kind of loads are you planning to run?

expert reply by: Andrew N

Dylan

1/13/2026

Got it. I’m just running LED lights and a MaxxAir fan, nothing heavy. Sounds like the 45 amp should be plenty then.

Andrew N.

1/13/2026

@Dylan Yes sir, for LED lighting and a vent fan, the # PM34VR is a great fit. That’s a very typical cargo trailer setup and well within what that converter handles comfortably. It also has plenty of room to add a usb phone charger or something else without overloading it. It really does come down to your battery bank too. If you have a single 100ah 12v battery then you might not want to hook up too much more to the DC system.