There have been questions and confusion about power.
It is easier learning in sections
Here is how i learned.
Step 1. Learn to make power box
Its a battery separate from other systems.
I got a used reconditioned interstate deep cycle.
Pair jumper cables. Battery box.
It sat on passengers front floor wedged so it couldnt tip. I used it to jump my van when needed and kept hooked up 20 minutes after starting van to charge back up.
Did that couple years. Got knocked out rear door and had to replace.
Next i added clip on power socket.
After that, next addition had 2 usb plugs and a digital voltmeter. Pretty simple. When not using unhook negative cable.
Finally wired in van to starter battery, added dorman switch and bought multimeter, 100 watt inverter.
I found 2 10 watt solar panels in free box at ltva in quartzsite. Got expert at moving for best power and how much they charged.
Last year bought big solar panel.
Found out too big for me, 24v, and charge controller really expensive. Sold it and had bought used 100 watt panel and charge contoller.
Starting out 10 watt panel and experimenting was good choice.
Here are some tips
Dont go all in at first. I promise you will ruin at least one battery while learning.
There are some good things about not having money at first..i learned as i went.
Never ever hook jumper cables under hood to charge house battery unless parked. Dangerous. One new idiot tried it. Hood flew up on I95. And she passed herself off on youtube as expert teaching.
Safest to learn power with battery in box charging by jumper cables.
Use the free apps with wire sizes, fuses, and safety.
I know wiring 12v. Got interupted. Know better, picked up where i left off rather than check from scratch. Started small fire. Think was less than 2 amps. Cross connected positive and negative. Promise wire insulation becomes liquid n drips instantly and open flame. Grabbed wires, pulled hard, tossed out open door.
A van's interior and engine electrical are NOT 2 separate systems, they are 2 interconnected systems.
This is merely an overview. 12v wiring will start a fire faster. You need to understand power before installing.
Screwing up or not being careful can start fire under hood, under dash, or interior. You can explode batteries or fry your entire electrical system.
See you down the road
JustLou
If you enjoyed this blog, consider donating $1 or more
