Inverters, alternators, and battery wiring

[bp71k5]

I'm installing a 1000W(2000W) power inverter. My plan is to install it on the passenger since it's close to the battery. The problem is that
my alternator is on the drivers side. Since I plan on keeping the engine running when I use high power electronics like the stereo and the inverter, ( to let the alternator supply the bulk of the power rather than draining the battery), shouldn't I upgrade my alternator charge wire to the same size as the power lead for the inverter? The instructions say minimum 4ga wire.

 

[dhcomp]

The point of the battery is to provide a buffer for high-draw situations. The alternator wiring size is based on the max output it is capable of, so i don't see a reason to upgrade it.

Also, not sure how many amps you will pull, but there is a possibility your Alt won't keep up, and still allow the battery to drain.

Regardless, i'd look into a 2nd battery setup. I LOVE mine. I used a stock drivers side tray from a diesel, and the dual battery kit from 12voltguy.com

There are normally 2nd battery trays for sale in the classifieds.

 

[4X4HIGH]

If you up the amp rating of the alternator then you should increase the cable size to the large post out back of the alternator (I used 4ga battery cable going to my isolator). I have a 1000W/(2000W peak) invertor i'm running and it goes directly to my auxillary battery using 4ga cables as well.

 

[munepit]

I'm glad this just came up. I'm in the process of installing dual batteries, isolator and 1500watt inverter. I have been doing a lot of reading on the setup that is right for me. I still have a lot more research to do.

Where did you guys mount your inverter? I think mine is going under the middle seats in my burb.

 

[4X4HIGH]

I'm glad this just came up. I'm in the process of installing dual batteries, isolator and 1500watt inverter. I have been doing a lot of reading on the setup that is right for me. I still have a lot more research to do.

Where did you guys mount your inverter? I think mine is going under the middle seats in my burb.

Mine is mounted under my drivers seat, it fits perfectly due to it's size.

 

[munepit]

What do you guys use with the inverter? I am planning to use a heater that is on a thermostat for camping when I'm sleeping in the back. And to charge a flashlight and cell phone. The owner of a local battery shop told me he would lend me a battery to borrow everytime I go camping to use for the heater. He doesn't want me to ruin my new battery I bought yesterday. I will not use the heater all night, just for an hr or so.

 

[bp71k5]

I'm already running a 90A alternator, but my 1500W amps are fed from a 4ga wire coming from a junction next to the alt. I could feed the invertor from that junction block, but with the inverter under the glove box, the power wire for it would be close to 8ft long. If I run it to the battery directly, it's close to 4 feet. I'm contemplating redesigning the electrical layout so I'm curious how others did it. I also have no plans for a second battery.

 

[bp71k5]

Mine is mounted under my drivers seat, it fits perfectly due to it's size.

Hmm, how long is the power lead for it? I didn't think it could be very long, but maybe my original plan to feed it from the alternator might work if yours is working ok. Maybe if I go to a larger size wire.

My plans are for running a computer, shop light, power drill, or maybe a small hair drier for the wife on camping trips.

 

[munepit]

I'm not completely sure or right about this, but my wires will ba about 8ft also. I plan on using 2ga welding wire. I think it 2ga. The biggest wire I can fit is what I'm going to use.

 

[shovelbill80]

i'm sure 4G will be fine, considering you can weld with it..... for shiits and giggles i'd probably put an inline on/off switch in there too. just be sure the inverter is large enough for all the items you want to run at the same time. also think about whether you want a pure sine wave or modified sine wave unit......

 

[munepit]

Mine is a modified swine. I'm not running a computer or anything sensitive. Just a heater like you put under a desk at work. I will be only using one thing at a time also.

So the welding wire is 4ga.? If so, I had my fat little fingers on some yesterday at the battery shop and it was big, and very flexible too.

 

[RootBreaker]

definitely see how many amps you will draw.. then distance.. and figure it out..

example on my winch... 460a max.... at first it was a 20' run from under hood to bed... and i ran 3/0 cable.. YEAH THICK!!!!!! now ive shortened it some.. but going to redo it again... all in all my run will be 2-3 feet and still running 3/0 cable...

remember if you dont run thick enough wire all will still work but your efficiency will not be there.. wire can heatup too and could melt the insulation = BAD!!!!!!!!!