Question Add more plug outlets near pilot seat

[sheridany]

How difficult is it to add another usb and a 12 volt outlet near the pilot seat? I am imagining we can tap into an existing line nearby for current. I also guess finding a place to put the outlet is the bigger challenge?

 

[Neal]

12V outlets are easy, you have plenty of red/white wires under the dash you can tap into or splice into wires going to other 12V outlets.

 

[TJ&LadyDi]

I installed additional 12VDC outlets in our previous coach (had Newmar do it as part of the build in the 2018 MADP) and it was quite easy.

There is one caution, however; before drilling any holes, positively verify what's behind the area where you plan to drill. I had to work around molded dividers and screw tabs, braces, wire looms, etc. You want to be sure that there is enough space behind where you drill the hole for the socket base and wires to fit. And, you surely don't want to penetrate a wire/wire loom with the drill bit/hole saw.

TJ

 

[Joe Hogan]

Or you can simply use a 12V power port (AKA Cigarette lighter) and install an USB plug. Car 12 Volt Mobile Charging Plug: Amazon.com

 

[sheridany]

Thank you for that link to Amazon and this came up in the suggested products which could work until I order my next coach.. Anyone tried one of these? I am not an expert on electric and not sure about "spliiting" as it refers to here.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDQLL7K/?tag=rvf01-20

 

[CoreyinWP]

Here is mine

 

[Akdare]

Thank you for that link to Amazon and this came up in the suggested products which could work until I order my next coach.. Anyone tried one of these? I am not an expert on electric and not sure about "spliiting" as it refers to here.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDQLL7K/?tag=rvf01-20

This would certainly be easier than tapping into wires (although it’s not that hard with the right connectors), especially if you are going to get a new coach soon. You can order extra USB’s as a special when you order; I did.

I have a question about what you want to plug into those extra outlets...I got this on my current coach, as I have a cigarette lighter outlet to the upper left of the steering wheel, and I use this for GPS on my phone. I see it’s no longer available, but it gives you an idea about other possibilities.

Amazon.com: Bestfy Phone Car Mount Holder, 3-in-1 Cigarette Lighter Car Mount Charger Holder with Dual USB and Flexible Gooseneck for iPhone, Samsung, Android Smartphones

Amazon.com: Bestfy Phone Car Mount Holder, 3-in-1 Cigarette Lighter Car Mount Charger Holder with Dual USB and Flexible Gooseneck for iPhone, Samsung, Android Smartphones

www.amazon.com

These things are usually make in China, and the manufacturing tolerances aren‘t that good. I had to put pieces of plastic soda straws in mine, as it was pretty loose.

 

[sheridany]

@Akdare I have the Garmin GPS and the RVi tablet for the toad braking system that both need a 12v source. I am going to try that splitter first and see how it does.

 

[Akdare]

Let us know how it works for you.

 

[Jabber Jaw]

@Akdare I have the Garmin GPS and the RVi tablet for the toad braking system that both need a 12v source. I am going to try that splitter first and see how it does.

I too am using the Garmin 770 & RVi tablet, and am using a similar splitter in my existing 12 volt plug for the new coach. Due to the weight of the two plugs,the swivel point moves up & down with the slightest vibration, which causes the insert portion to vibrate loose, thus losing connection. I'm thinking I will put an additional 12 volt outlet next to the existing one, thereby eliminating the issue .
Just an FYI!

 

[sheridany]

@Jabber Jaw that is is excellent intel and I am going to cancel my amazon order. Have you been able power the rvi tablet with just the USB port? When I tried it, my tablet died.

 

[Akdare]

Tablets require more power than phones. I’ve always been very happy with the products from Anker. Wall & auto chargers, and their cables are better than OEM. This should solve your tablet issue.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K9MQ8WW/?tag=rvf01-20