i want to install a power inverter to power my 110V items. my question is, how much power can i get out of the stock electrical system, both on a 1500RPM fast idle, and with out the engine running, with out killing my battery's? i would like to have more than i need, not going to use all of it all the time. could i get 1,000 watts out of it?

i want to place some outlets in the back bumper, and a set inside the cab. one must be easy to get to driving up the road, or from the drivers seat. any ideals?

 

For how long do you want to draw that 1000 watts? Continuously?

 

1000w at 12V is a little more than 80 amps, the alternator will handle the draw but if you shut the truck down I don't think the batteries will last too long.

 

I have a small inverter in my truck now, handy for chargin the dewalt batteries, and running other things, been thinking of getting a bigger one but keeping in mind what else I have I would use an interrupt switch. This way when you tun one item on of high draw, you can turn the other off, in my case I Isolated both items with 60 amp max draw with switches, and would do the same with a high output inverter to keep a level of power consumption manageable. Mounting the unit under the pass side seat is a great spot, or under drivers seat. Takikng seats out to do the install makes it a lot easier, and the bolt that holds the seat makes a big sturdy ground.

 

You may also want to consider a separate deep cycle battery isolated from your starter batteries.

 

I'm running a 1200w and it's sitting under the driver's seat. The alternator keeps it up, but I wouldn't dare use it much without the engine running. Batteries cost more than diesel fuel (at least for now ).

 

I've got a 700 watt unit under the driver seat for the boys "toys". A 13" flat screen and video player and an Xbox 360. I won't let them run it more than 15 minutes without the truck running. Great for the RV trips!

 

I've been thinking about adding one to my camper so the kids can watch the portable dvd player without running the generator.

 

I went to Radio Shack and bought one of those cheap 400w inverters and use it in our travel trailer to run a 19" TV/DVD player combo. Works great.

 

Ive been through five or so of the 400W inverters. They will all sonner or later quit working. Ive even bought name brands.

What is a good inveter that will last 5+ years 400-100W

 

Xantrex, PowerStream, Samlex, and Vector are a few.

 

I had an old 3000 watt Statpower laying around so I installed it. Probably would blow the batteries it I used it to its full capabilities. I keep an electric impact tool in the truck with an extention cord and a set of impact sockets for wheel removal incase I have a flat.