110v outlets in bed and console (write-up)

Hi everyone. I had a few people ask for a write up on this, so I’m happy to help....although there’s really not much to write up.
The inverter I used was around $30 and claims to have a 500w-550w output from each of the two built in outlets. It also has two 2.1 usb outlets, but I didn’t utilize them for this project. I may extend them to flush mount ports at a later date.
(Stock photo because I forgot to take photo before mounting it)



I mounted it under the drivers seat with the outlets facing the center console. I ran a 8g ground through the floorboard and grounded it to the frame, then an 8g wire to the positive side of the battery.

I chose this outlet for the back of the console mainly due to aesthetics and the fact that it adds USB ports. It also comes pre-wired with an extension cord to plug into the inverter.



I went with a different shape for the one in the bed, but it comes prewired also...though I did need a single 6ft extension cord to reach the inverter.
I taped off the outlets and bedlined it so it would blend in more.
Even though my bedcover doesn’t leak, I am still designing a cover for the unit.



I suggest removing the light and tailgate shock when cutting, just in case...so you don’t damage them.

That’s really all there is to it, but I’m always happy to answer any questions.

 

What brand are the outlets? Are they prewired to any inverter?

 

I’ll find links for you, but they are both wired with standard three prong plugs. Round one has a 6ft cord. Rectangular one has a 9ft cord.

 

Bapdas 500W Power Inverter DC 12V to AC 110V Converter with 2 AC Outlets and 2 USB Ports for Tablets, Laptops and Smartphones-Upgraded

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GZCYZPM?ref=yo_pop_ma_share

$18 3" Desk Power Grommet With Green USB Port, 2 AC Outlets and 2 USB Ports - Round Hole Outlet With 6.5FT Heavy Duty Power Cord

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FNJRHVF?ref=yo_pop_ma_share

$10 Recessed Power Strip, Black Desktop Power Grommet Socket with Furniture, 2 AC Outlets & 2 USB Ports for Conference Desk,Kitchen,Office,Home,Hotel (9.85 ft)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FD423NB?ref=yo_pop_ma_share

 

Is the recessed power strip not outdoor rated, or am I missing it?

 

That's awesome! Great job!

 

Thanks. Nice job. Looks like it came there from Toyota. I’ve been meaning to do this for years. I think some tundras and sequoias came with an inverter and power outlet, but it’s overpriced. I was looking at a cobra professional 1500w or 2000w.

 

No. It isn’t. Thats why I’m designing a cover for it, as stated...even though it’s out of the elements when my bedcover is closed.

I searched for days to find an outdoor one that would fit in the bed that was more than a single outlet. I couldn’t find anything.

Also, all outdoor units are open on the backside, which would leave everything exposed. This is a sealed unit.

 

Does the inverter have a switch on it?

 

Will this work with the truck off? Also, at what point do I need to think about a secondary battery...I already have AMP research steps and a rough country light bar hooked up to my battery.

 

This one doesn’t, but there are those that do.

 

Yes, this is hooked to constant power.
Your steps only use power when extended, and light bar only when it’s on, so you should still be fine with one battery.
I chose to install an in-dash voltmeter so I can see if the battery starts to drain and start the truck to charge it back up.

Another option is to get a battery that is both a deep cycle and a starting battery. That type will help with running many accessories at once with the engine off.

 

Awesome, thanks for the info. I’m a newb when it comes to this stuff

 

Just keep in mind that for a 12V 2000W inverter at full load you will be drawing over 160 Amps. Better get the correct wire size or your truck will go up in flames. Also long runs may require even larger wire. Also this should be switched, key or panel switch, to protect the battery. Best case is that the inverter has a control lead that allows you to turn it on/off. Otherwise the switch would need to be rated the same as the wire.

 

I didn’t think about the draw on the alternator. Guess I’ll go with 1000w or 1500w. I just wanted the bigger one to have the power if I needed it. Also just got the genesis dual battery kit in so it’ll be on it’s own battery. Cobra’s also have a power switch so they aren’t always on or on when the truck starts.

 

Did you add heated seats for the rear? What’s the switch on the sides of the cig lighter outlet?

 

Yes. I installed leather and seat heaters in front and rear.
Write up is here...

https://www.tundras.com/threads/leather-katzkin-heated-seats-installation-in-2015-crewmax.35837/

 

So did you "disassemble" the inverter and just moved the outlets to the mounting locations?

 

No, he used extension cords and added new outlets

 

Almighty Crash, I ordered and just received the exact inverter you installed. My question is how did you mount/secure the inverter under the seat? Also, where did you breach the firewall for the positive lead to the battery?

 

Journeyman-Pro 5279 15 Amp 120-125 Volt, NEMA 5-15 Flanged Outlet, Black Commercial Grade, 2 Pole-3 Wire, Straight Blade Plug Charger Receptacle (w/Front Cover)

$19 Journeyman-Pro 5279 15 Amp 120-125 Volt, NEMA 5-15 Flanged Outlet, Black Commercial Grade, 2 Pole-3 Wire, Straight Blade Plug Charger Receptacle (w/Front Cover)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MSGGNM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JP70CbP0MH0VA

 

You can Velcro it to the carpet, and it won’t go anywhere.
The 12v wire enters through the rubber grommet that all of the other factory wires come through.

 

@Joeler22 @Dilsky project time?

 

I simply plug an inverter similar to yours into the trailer hitch receiver wiring connector when I need 120v power to that area. With diagrams all over the internet showing the proper pins to use (12v positive & negative) for the various plugs (4-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, etc), wiring the plug was super easy

Since most of my power tools are cordless, I got it mainly for the two 120v air pumps (120v pumps are stronger & quicker than 12v) for my inflatable boat. However, I have used the inverter to power a few small shop tools (band saw, belt sander, etc) while on location. I've also used it for the air compressor when airbrushing (fishing lures, etc) at remote camp sites. When the inverter is not being used, it's tossed into the bed toolbox with my other tools.

 

I want to get a 500W converter and add 2 of these grommet units (1 where you have it and 1 in the front seat somewhere). My question is, so I have to wire direct to the battery? Can I tap into wire from a cigarette lighter or similar? Mainly using it to charge my laptop on travel, etc... Thanks @AlmightyCrash

 

I want to get a 500W converter and add 2 of these grommet units (1 where he has it and 1 in the front seat somewhere). My question is, do I have to wire direct to the battery? Can I tap into wire from a cigarette lighter or similar? Mainly using it to charge my laptop on travel, etc..just don’t want the catch fire using a smaller wire to get power. Thanks @lamikela1

 

For 500 watts you would be pulling about 42 amps at full load. You would need a power source that has a number 6-8 wire size to be safe.

 

Thanks so much. I created a new thread to ask questions. I’ve learned my inverter has two 40 amp fuses and my sub that is currently running power has 100amp. I’m needing 180 amp so I’m using a 1/0 gauge wire with a 300Amp in-line fuse then a power distributor to distribute power to both devices. There’s much more to it (relays, switches, etc) but that’s the jest of it. Thanks

 

What paint did you use/find that bedlined the outlet. I need to do that for something else. Thanks

 

Ok. Sounds like you are on the right track.