Installing a Truck Inverter

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  • Опубликовано: 1 окт 2024
  • Step-by-step installation of this $99 inverter on my truck, making it possible to plug in AC battery chargers and tools. Truck becomes like a generator.
    ➠ Video on installing the isolator: • Two Battery SetUp Usin...
    ✯ 220 inverter, which is not typical in North America: amzn.to/2wiViUm
    ✯ jumper cables: amzn.to/2MLXXjv
    ✯ 1" conduit: amzn.to/2PugWh3
    ✯ circuit breaker: amzn.to/2MvG2hO
    ✯ grommets: amzn.to/2o3ti3g
    ✯ step drill bits: amzn.to/2wmfsfU
    ✯ isolator: amzn.to/2Mqw6WK
    (all Amazon Associates links, which help support the channel)
    Some of my favorite tools are here:
    ✯ www.amazon.com...
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    Music used in this video:
    ✯ Artist -- dixxy
    ✯ Song -- those days
    ✯ Link -- / those-days

Комментарии • 468

  • @metaspencer
    @metaspencer  4 года назад +5

    Here's a video on how the isolator between the two batteries is wired: ruclips.net/video/UdxaZR4GbVA/видео.html

  • @bigfootandbananaman4746
    @bigfootandbananaman4746 6 лет назад +56

    I like that crimping trick with a screwdriver. Always learning things from you. Thanks!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  6 лет назад

      haha ... thanks, man!

    • @chrisw1462
      @chrisw1462 5 лет назад +1

      That crimping trick might end up kicking him later.. there's a reason crimp tools have a 'V' shape on Both sides.

    • @cheekygeek
      @cheekygeek 5 лет назад +1

      Chris W Same idea using two triangular files then. Still saves buying a crimping tool for a single job.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      That sounds like it would work well

    • @chrisfi3d
      @chrisfi3d 5 лет назад +1

      They say, give a competent man a tool and he can find a 1000 uses for it.

  • @matt22blaster
    @matt22blaster 3 года назад +10

    As someone who knows nothing about this kinda stuff, I can't thank you enough for that simple diagram. You're awesome.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +1

      Oh great! You’re gonna love having it hooked up

  • @nunyerbeeznaz2906
    @nunyerbeeznaz2906 5 лет назад +13

    One major thing needs saying. A Certain manufacturer,on Amazon, was describing their 2 gauge wiring as #2 AWG wire. American Wire Gauge is a TECHNICAL STANDARD stating current and voltage handling characteristics. When checked,the wire was ultra-light and questionable as "copper". When checked,the wire was magnetically attracted. It was arc-sprayed cast iron wire with a copper coating. ALWAYS use wire supplied by a standard manufacturer,rather than depending on junk jumper cables for constant power transfer. Welding cable is best !!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Wow, crazy story! Thanks for the tips

    • @imark7777777
      @imark7777777 5 лет назад +2

      There are some good jumper cables out there I have one I don't want to cut, there is also another trend of 10 pounds of insulation on a 20 gauge wire they were free.

    • @chrisgraham2904
      @chrisgraham2904 5 лет назад +2

      Yes! For the best quality and price for cable, source it from a welding supplier. Even Harbor Freight (U.S.) or Princess Auto (Canada) welding cable by the foot is a better gamble than recycled booster cables. Size the wire as large as you can tolerate for DC current and keep the runs as short as possible. Never exceed 10 feet per run.

    • @donalddluckerii3147
      @donalddluckerii3147 4 года назад +3

      @@chrisgraham2904 10 ft? If you never exceed 10ft per run than no car amplifiers could ever be installed in trunks etc. As this is common practice what is your reasoning?

    • @chrisgraham2904
      @chrisgraham2904 4 года назад +3

      @@donalddluckerii3147 For every inverter manufacturer that I investigated, somewhere in their fine print they state that the wire length between the battery and the inverter must not exceed 10 ft. The inverter warranty is void if that length is exceeded, so I assume that this is their legal liability issue. Many people do exceed that limit when installing on pick-up trucks, etc. and seem to have little issues. Don't skimp on wire size and oversize beyond recommended where ever possible. Solar panel manufacturers and retailers are also a good resource for expert advise on inverter installations.

  • @richardgalvin8390
    @richardgalvin8390 5 лет назад +8

    I believe I would have come through the floor of bed already one hole their

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Richard Galvin good point! I think I was trying to avoid water intrusion

  • @joerivas9847
    @joerivas9847 2 года назад +1

    Price of copper strand welding cable is ridiculous, I used jumper cables too for my project!

  • @KarasCyborg
    @KarasCyborg 5 лет назад +1

    Instead of crimping like that, get a propane/map gas torch, put the eyelets in your vice so the cup is upward, sweat some solder down into the cup, and then push the stranded wire in the cup and let cool. Presto, no crimping and solid connection.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Oh dang, I like the sound of that. A nice soldered connection is always the best. T'hanks for the tip!

  • @rebeccarainharrod
    @rebeccarainharrod 5 лет назад +3

    Wait. This is a 2kW inverter, meaning it can potentially output about 9 amps on the 220 volt AC side (not taking into account power factor).
    This would also mean that you're *capable* of drawing almost *170 amps* of current from the 12 volt side.
    From a quick google search, 2 AWG copper wire can carry a *MAX* load of 130 amps, and that's assuming it's pure copper, which the wire you have here *may* very well not be. This isn't even taking into account the total length of the wire, which can negatively affect the amperage carrying capability of a given wire.
    With all of this being said, shouldn't your circuit breaker be rated more around *100 amps?* With a 300 amp breaker, I think the wire would roast before the breaker tripped, no?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      You've given me a lot to think about, thanks! I guess the risk would be if I was pulling big power, like with a chop saw or something. I'm thinking of either 1) switching out that breaker, or 2) moving the inverter to the engine compartment and using an extension cord for the plug-in ... anyway, thanks for the careful reasoning!

  • @chriswooster
    @chriswooster 5 лет назад +7

    Best video I've found that explains all of this so well. I'm trying to to the exact same thing and this very clearly explained a lot of things I don't know much about. THANK YOU.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Oh good! Good luck with the project!

  • @thepennydreadfulbus8461
    @thepennydreadfulbus8461 6 лет назад +7

    We really love your ingenuity that you show in your projects! The screwdriver in the vice as a crimp line and the extra hand of vice grips holding a nut while you tighten the screw will be two tricks we're stealing from you. Thank you! :)

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  6 лет назад

      hey, nice of you to say! I really appreciate that. take care!

  • @socalwoodworks3007
    @socalwoodworks3007 4 года назад +4

    Came here looking for some info on putting an inverter into my Tundra, found a great channel to subscribe to. Thx!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      Thanks! Tundra will great with more power options

  • @miken7629
    @miken7629 5 лет назад +22

    Since the truck is negative ground, you only needed to route the red positive wire through the truck and drill one less hole. Then you will only need a short negative wire between the inverter and the truck frame.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад +8

      I get that now - thanks. Too many years of house wiring on my end I guess haha ... take care

    • @TeamWagy
      @TeamWagy 5 лет назад +14

      In my opinion it's still best to run straight to the battery especially when drawing a lot from the battery

    • @jasonpintler8150
      @jasonpintler8150 4 года назад +3

      Any inverter over 1000 watt must have both - & +, 2 awg (or larger) cables. Im not an expert, but every one I've ever owned would clearly state that in the manual.....

    • @awesomesauce2935
      @awesomesauce2935 4 года назад

      @@jasonpintler8150 but isn't several hundred square feet (guess) of conductive metal at least 0 gauge? Its an honest question as I don't know the answer.

    • @thomasjohnson3895
      @thomasjohnson3895 3 года назад +1

      @@awesomesauce2935 The ground circuit thru the chassis must still be connected to the battery. The small size of the battery to chassis ground cable will result in a voltage drop going to the inverter. The greater the load on the inverter the greater the voltage drop. The more the voltage drop the more amps required to deliver the same watts/power. The greater the amp draw the more the wires will heat up. The resistance from the heat will farther reduce will the voltage requiring even more amps.

  • @WillemLuntungan
    @WillemLuntungan Год назад +1

    Good job.

  • @IndianaDadstuff
    @IndianaDadstuff Год назад +1

    One improvement. Add two small strips of ears there stripping on the jig where the bottom of the inverter touches it to keep it in place for sure and vibrations down.

  • @dangerdoberman
    @dangerdoberman 3 года назад +2

    One of the best instructional vids for this. Simple and to the point. Much OBLIGED!

  • @skepticalmechanic
    @skepticalmechanic 5 лет назад +1

    Glued and screwed? Why... over kill

  • @canadapainter658
    @canadapainter658 5 лет назад +3

    metaspencer = thanks....I only want to hook up a stereo to it and an MP3 player...

  • @carinapinch7703
    @carinapinch7703 5 лет назад +3

    You are one talented dude. Good communication skills too. Thank you very much.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Thanks! Real nice of you to say

  • @erikaguilar7193
    @erikaguilar7193 5 лет назад +1

    You don't have to run ground all the way to the inverter you can ground it directly to the frame (ground) just clean the rust off the surface with a wire wheel or wire brush

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Yeah, good point. I didn't exactly know that when I was doing it ... years of wiring houses got in my way. Thanks for the tip!

  • @RyanMarchandCREdetroit
    @RyanMarchandCREdetroit 5 лет назад +1

    inverter is in a good location, and you don't need to put it in the engine compartment but a few notes:
    1) Your Red power wires should be wrapped with electrical tape (depending on voltage, select appropriate electrical tape) so you do not see any exposed terminals or wire!
    2) I like your vice with screwdriver trick!
    3) You can ground to the bed (shorter grounds are safer. Ground wires should be the same size or larger than your power wires. Less resistance = better ground. Wire brush your frame and use a fat ass bolt torque nicely to the frame as your ground location. Running it all the way to the battery was completely unnecessary and less-safe than a shorter ground.
    4) Great idea with the secondary battery & Isolator!

  • @KuntalGhosh
    @KuntalGhosh 2 года назад

    Things that i recommend with this setup!
    Get a meanwell inverter, u can have a 1500w model for 250$ and they are way better quality and most importantly won't burn ur truck down!. Get a 12v 100ah Lifepo4 battery from Amazon and use 100amp contractor so that it will only connect to your truck battery only when the engine is running. When engine is not running the inverter will only drain the 100ah Lifepo4 battery which should give u about 1100w/hr to use. Don't forget to install an temperature controller for the alternator or the lithium will pull too much current from the alternator at idle & fry the coil!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      Interesting ideas and insights. Thanks buddy!

  • @cbenson1820
    @cbenson1820 3 года назад

    30 Gal. 175 PSI Oil Lubed Belt Drive Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor
    .........According to your installation method, can I use this air pump? Is the power enough??The vehicle is a toyota sienna or a Honda Odyssey????

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Just check the pump: it will indicate how much power it needs and then you can find an inverter that works

  • @niniovergara5214
    @niniovergara5214 5 лет назад +2

    hello ser
    good day from phillipines

  • @EVGSTORE
    @EVGSTORE 5 лет назад +2

    you shod get a inverter for the bus and have it so if you do need it you can have some sort of backup power while driving

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад +1

      Yep, on my list for when I replace the leisure battery. Also an isolator

  • @Marty48034
    @Marty48034 4 года назад +3

    This gives me lots of ideas. Thank you!!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      Oh good! You’re gonna love it

  • @gearjammer4779
    @gearjammer4779 4 года назад

    Excuse me ☝️. That’s not a perfectly good truck. It’s just a raggedy ass old Chevrolet. I could understand having second thoughts about drilling holes in a Ford or a Dodge but ... 🤷‍♂️

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      There ya go. Always a Ford lover in the bunch ... and I've got a couple of Fords so it's all good :)

  • @pamcolechadwell1302
    @pamcolechadwell1302 6 лет назад +3

    I have a 96 Z71 with almost 400 thousand, she did run pretty good till my 17 yr old got hold of her. makes me sad! maybe he needs one of these Inverters.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  6 лет назад +1

      woah, 400k! it's hard to believe, but this 1990 has just, wait for it, 53k miles. hardly any miles and next to zero rust. so you can imagine that I really like it :)

    • @pamcolechadwell1302
      @pamcolechadwell1302 6 лет назад +1

      WOW, you better love that truck.

    • @tedskam
      @tedskam 4 года назад +1

      "ran pretty good till my 17 year old got ahold of it..."
      Wish I had a dollar for everytime that was uttered...….

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      They’re dangerous!

  • @jn3673
    @jn3673 4 года назад +1

    Nice install brother. Quick question. Could you connect the ground to the chassis instead of going all the way to the battery? Thank you for your time!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      Oh yeah, that will save you time and wire. The chassis is definitely a good ground

  • @Raptor-7
    @Raptor-7 4 года назад +1

    Nice configuration however that strap looks bad , should have used a metal bracket secured to the wood to hold the inverter bro 😎

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      I see your point, but the dang strap just keeps hanging in there! I should change it, but I somehow never do

  • @dennismorton4688
    @dennismorton4688 Год назад +1

    pretty neat i have a 92 silverado thinking of doing the same thing

  • @kevinokun
    @kevinokun 3 года назад

    why couldnt you just ground the inverter to the chassis? seat bolt or really anywhere thats metal...confused why you needed to go directly into the neg battery?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      You absolutely can ground to the frame. I tend to prefer a ground to battery in a setup like this, but you're absolutely right.

  • @danielijankaidze7696
    @danielijankaidze7696 2 года назад

    Bro hello. I have no car no battery and 220v 500 watt Power supply 40A 12v Can I connect it instead of the battery? Connect to the car inverter generate 220 volts?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      Worth a try but I can’t see starting the vehicle with no battery

  • @koalafan1576
    @koalafan1576 5 месяцев назад

    Wow, there’s like no engine, there’s a ton of empty space in your engine bay. I don’t have nearly enough space to put an extra battery.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 месяцев назад

      Yeah older vehicles are FULL of space.

  • @diamonddetails9445
    @diamonddetails9445 Год назад

    Dear Sir, can you make a video that shows how to use the same principle indoors to fire up your electrical heater during a snowstorm or catastrophic weather? Without using your pickup truck 4 charging your indoor battery?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад +1

      Sir, no I can't do that. I'd never run a heater on a battery. That would be too much power draw

  • @FG-qh7qx
    @FG-qh7qx 5 лет назад +1

    That was a great video. I work in the oil field and move from job to job and I want to put a small microwave in my truck. Can you recommend a strong enough inverter?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      You’re looking for a 2000 watt inverter I’m guessing... sounds like a good setup

    • @chrisgraham2904
      @chrisgraham2904 5 лет назад +2

      I don't think any consumer microwaves exceed 1500 Watts -- the smaller compact units are usually around 1,100 Watts and are quite adequate for reheating a coffee , a sandwich, soups and stews..etc. Size the inverter 500 Watts above what your plugging into it.

  • @andrewa5272
    @andrewa5272 Год назад

    Great video. I want to do the same thing. Do you recommend anything different other than the mount? This video was made 3 years ago are you still using the same setup?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад +1

      Great setup. Just get a high quality unit

  • @TheXodiak
    @TheXodiak 3 года назад +1

    Nice explanation. Simple and easy to follow. Thank you! Hope it's held up well, I like the breaker idea.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Thanks! Yeah still liking my setup

  • @jordans516
    @jordans516 5 лет назад +1

    U should use the seat bolt for ground

  • @johnathanpessetti295
    @johnathanpessetti295 2 года назад

    Doesn’t the length of the power wire cause lots of amperage?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      It hasn't been a problem for me and what I run, but you're right: the longer the cord the less juice

  • @matthews8691
    @matthews8691 3 года назад

    wait second battery? What if I only have one battery... will this work?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      One battery is great. Just don’t kill it with your engine off

  • @jonathanciccarone5992
    @jonathanciccarone5992 Год назад

    Curious why you got a 220v inverter? I’ve plugged my US 120v tools and chargers into 220v sockets overseas without a step-down transformer and I accidentally blew the tools. Trying to figure out why that didn’t happen with your tools when you tested them??

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад +1

      It wasn't intentional to get the 220v and makes sense to keep in the 110 arena for sure

    • @jonathanciccarone5992
      @jonathanciccarone5992 Год назад

      @@metaspencer makes sense. Funny as I’m looking for a 220v one to use overseas ha. Thanks for the vid! Good stuff.

  • @toxicpaintball03
    @toxicpaintball03 2 года назад

    I wonder if you could run a small 125 amp flux core welder off this thing

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      That would be amazing! I kinda doubt you’d get enough heat … but it would be cool

  • @raakgu
    @raakgu 3 года назад

    Can 2 car batteries run a 5000w inverter without any problems or damage to the batteries?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      You have to check a chart for that kind of info .. always depends on the load and batteries

  • @danielorondo3842
    @danielorondo3842 2 года назад

    @metaspencer thank you so much for your video. I install my old 5 year power inverter on my old suburban 2001 and once I connect the cables, power inverter start to do a humming sound. Do you think is normal? Power inverter was off. Thank so much for any advise on power inverter humming sound when is off.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад +1

      That humming doesn't sound good to me ... I guess I'd probably not use it if possible. It would be bad to have a fire

    • @danielorondo3842
      @danielorondo3842 2 года назад +1

      @@metaspencer thank you so much for your reply, i really appreciate it. I will look for another power inverter. Thank you so much 🤗

  • @otherZinc
    @otherZinc 5 лет назад +2

    Thanks!

  • @cameronskaggs4188
    @cameronskaggs4188 4 года назад

    You have positive and negative to the inverter did you have to hook a ground as well to the inverter because I have positive negative cable plus a ground

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      You can ground to the body of the vehicle ... that's the the negative cable. I ran mine to the battery but you can just ground to the frame

  • @dhansel4835
    @dhansel4835 3 года назад

    It is best to get a 'pure sine-wave' inverter. They cost a little more but they give you a pure sine wave just as your house power is.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      I've heard that from a few people -- seems they're especially important if running electronics. Thanks !

  • @Yorkpowers
    @Yorkpowers 3 года назад

    I'm thinking about doing this so I can put a small portable air conditioner in my car what do you think?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      That’s a lot of power … second battery would be key

  • @LEONDELASIERRA1
    @LEONDELASIERRA1 3 месяца назад

    What size wire did you use?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 месяца назад +1

      Check a chart. Depends on distance and load. Don’t go too thin

  • @aamirwork3006
    @aamirwork3006 3 года назад

    please make video for microwave use now on it ,it work on it or not because of high starting ampers

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      I've had that question a few times. Yes, microwave has a big draw

  • @DiamondCrossMusic
    @DiamondCrossMusic Год назад

    if i used separate battery for inverter 2000w , how do it recharge to battery?or can i connect direct to car battery?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад

      recharge but linking it up in series or parallel depending on what you want, if your alternator can handle it

  • @raymondshrader3555
    @raymondshrader3555 10 месяцев назад

    I'd like to do this on my slvilerado but dont trust my skill level. You think a garage would do this for me if I bought all the items? They would probably want to charge me an arn and a leg huh?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  10 месяцев назад +1

      A shop that installs audio equipment could probably do the best job and charge the least, as they're used to this kind of stuff

    • @raymondshrader3555
      @raymondshrader3555 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@metaspencer Hey thanks for the video and that info. Much appricated...😊

  • @peytonfindlayyy
    @peytonfindlayyy 2 года назад

    you know you could of grounded the inverter to the bed as long it was bare medal

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      Yep, you said it! or the frame back there

  • @jessesibley4001
    @jessesibley4001 2 года назад

    How do you charge your second battery the one you use for your inverter are you charging it via the alternator?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      It’s tied into the main battery so the alternator charges both

  • @mr.timjohnston546
    @mr.timjohnston546 6 лет назад +1

    very good sir, now can you do a vid on how I would use a solar panel with this setup?? Its just what I'm looking for. It would be soooo helpful since I'm a bit of a twit when it comes to this sort of thing.. cheers

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  6 лет назад +1

      I guess I really should put a solar panel on top of my topper for off-grid camping ... cool idea! Solar is definitely a bit more complicated, as you'll need a charge controller and all that, but you should be able to find some useful diagrams online. Good luck with it!

  • @GibClark
    @GibClark 6 лет назад +2

    👍👍👍👍

  • @stefanallan4274
    @stefanallan4274 3 года назад

    Should keep the inverter as close to the batteries as possible to stop power drop shorter the cable run the better

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +1

      Yeah, good point. Fortunately it works for my uses as is but a short run would be ideal. Thanks!

  • @evananthonybaez
    @evananthonybaez 4 года назад

    I have a ? Maybe you might know.. so im using a heat gun 1500w and inverter 2000 watt buT ny inverter goes 7mins of use the my voltage is at 10.45 then it shuts off ... should i add a capacitor so that way i get a loanger user time or second battery

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      Heat guns pull a LOT of power, so I'm not surprised. Sounds like a classic overload ... not sure about the capacitor idea

    • @evananthonybaez
      @evananthonybaez 4 года назад

      @@metaspencer thank you for your response... another?
      Im runing 4awg cable wire to isolator and battery to front and battery to back but inly 2awg to the inverter will that be a problem.... should i just use 2awg everything... and when useing heat gun i would have to just run car

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      @@evananthonybaez For wire gauge it depends on load and distance. You need to check a chart ... often called a "wire gauge chart"

    • @evananthonybaez
      @evananthonybaez 4 года назад

      @@metaspencer thank you so much

  • @dw4940
    @dw4940 4 года назад

    Nice install. How is that era Chevy as far as mechanical, any issues? I had an 01 s10 that was a huge lemon but heard Chevy is junk and mine is typical. Give ya example of comparison-98' Tacoma first set of ball joints at 170k mi. S10: 1st set @ 70k, & 2nd set 80-100k later! 1st fuel pump @ 91,300 & 2nd 90,xxx miles later! TacomA:pump never failed. Both times happened after 11pm & big tow bills. 2nd time I just filled up 50 $gas. Shop wanted 1100 parts & labor. Friends fixed both times for coupla Bill's.and pump itself 250-300 for quality name. 2nd time 210 with dealership discount. Only good thing out of both failing is I could easily do an install myself after watching & helping work on mine.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      The thing about my Chevy is that it's still at just 65k, so it's hard to tell about the overall cost of repairs. I have had a few things go, like the freakin' tranny! But that may have been a fluke due to hauling heavy loads. I've owned one Toyota and had a good experience: went 200k with little repairs other than the clutch at 180k. My ford and chevy trucks have not been so lucky ... but then, I still love 'em and get a ton of work done with them, so it may all even out. Good hearing from ya, man!

  • @dw4940
    @dw4940 4 года назад

    Does that pos still work? I I wudn buy junk, waste of $ that's gonna fail when u need it the most. Just my opinion.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      The inverter still works but I think you're right: better to get a quality unit. I'm just cheap and don't use it that much

    • @dw4940
      @dw4940 4 года назад

      @@metaspencer good to know it mite be ok to buy. I've heard definitely stay away from the cheap Chinese ones.

  • @chriskennedy5341
    @chriskennedy5341 3 года назад

    Need low voltage disconnect also to protect your battery

  • @NiteRythemzRadio
    @NiteRythemzRadio 5 лет назад +1

    did this to my 94 Silverado with a leer top.

  • @jdubya54
    @jdubya54 5 лет назад +1

    Another good point. Thanks

  • @mrcina8621
    @mrcina8621 2 года назад

    Add at least 100w solar panel 💪
    Thanks for sharing 👏

  • @lench1987
    @lench1987 5 лет назад +1

    Several things are gonna go wrong with that install

    • @thePyiott
      @thePyiott 4 года назад

      Could you elaborate? Im looking to do something similar in my car

  • @fivespeed3026
    @fivespeed3026 4 года назад

    I’m surprised you didn’t put the breaker switch right next to the inverter. Now you have to pop the hood every time you want to switch it on or off.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      I went for safer ... works for me since I use it rarely

  • @poseidon3032
    @poseidon3032 4 года назад

    I had a 400W inverter installed. I upgraded it to a 800W. I also installed an inline fuse when I installed the 400W. I don't run that much: a laptop, a printer, a hotspot and my phone. The 400W ran off of 12AWG wire and I never had the fuse blow. As long as I don't increase my load, will the 800W be OK until I get the chance upgrade the wire? I didn't use a conduit. Good idea BTW.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад +1

      Check a wire size chart. Depends on load but also length of the wire. Fuse is a good idea

  • @FlushtheSystem
    @FlushtheSystem 5 лет назад

    UPDATE: My truck caught fire, massively, Burned to the ground but I saved money on the parts. LMAO

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Haha. You make a good point!! Gotta get s better inverter

  • @cottonrbxx
    @cottonrbxx 5 лет назад +1

    Awesome video thanks!

  • @WillemLuntungan
    @WillemLuntungan Год назад

    Thank you

  • @jordanimatedstreaming
    @jordanimatedstreaming 5 лет назад +1

    how did you crimp the connectors after you fed them into the truck topper?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Vice grips and bolts to make the crimp ... worked but a crimper of that size would be nice

    • @jordanimatedstreaming
      @jordanimatedstreaming 5 лет назад +1

      @@metaspencer sure would. anyway, great video.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Thanks for checking it out!

  • @chadford7827
    @chadford7827 2 года назад

    What are some things you can run of this.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      I use it to charge my tool batteries and run small tools ... just check your tools for how much power they need and match it to your inverter

  • @RobinsonHooi
    @RobinsonHooi 5 лет назад +1

    thanks for the video, how do you decide the current rating of the circuit breaker?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      Your inverter should have a load description in amps ...

  • @MrRyne1993
    @MrRyne1993 5 лет назад +2

    This is great step by step instructions! I have 1994 Silverado so I'll be doing pretty much the same. I'm needing to live in my truck for a few months sadly while I go to school. But this video is one of many glad you posted!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад +4

      I installed this inverter after spending a week sleeping in the back of the truck -- it's great to be able to plug in and charge things back there. You're gonna like it. Note that you might be able to save some money and time by installing the unit under the hood and simply plugging in an extension cord for your power. That's another option. Good luck with the project and truck life!

    • @SDRacing88
      @SDRacing88 5 лет назад

      I wonder if this inverter is strong enough to run a small 100 psi air compressor.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      I think it would be. Just check amps on the compressor

    • @uber2tuber
      @uber2tuber 2 года назад

      @@metaspencer Great vid.... question please. I have read that car batteries are inherently limited to about 150 to 200w power draws? can that be true? how does a 2000w inverter work with a regular battery then? Thank you so much.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      @@uber2tuber Yeah you will surely encounter limits when pulling from a car battery ... from what I know it all depends on the size of the batteries, alternator, etc

  • @20807shane
    @20807shane 5 лет назад

    That looks like crap. Shoulda just stayed underneath bed and come up from bottom, you would’ve had plent cable.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      I can see your point of view, but I was going for a higher entry point given risk of water infiltration

  • @ianglispy2885
    @ianglispy2885 3 года назад

    MR Spencer good video. Two questions: 1) suppose I do not have room under the hood or don't want a 2nd battery there. Can I keep battery two on a tender in my house, bring it out when necessary, place it in my truck bed and just run wires to an inverter and then plug devices into the inverter without connecting battery two to the car battery(Battery one) that is under the hood with the car running? Question 2: If a car needs to be running, why have two batteries? Thanks.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Number one is a yes, but just keep it charged regularly. Number two is that it’s just how some heavy duty trucks are set up. Good luck with it!

  • @imark7777777
    @imark7777777 5 лет назад +1

    I think I got the same jumper they were from a local store, i was a little disappointed to find out that they were copper clad aluminum but it will work. I ended up drilling out the rivet so I could save the clips for other uses and keep the extra 6in of wire.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад +1

      That copper coated aluminum is too common! Saving the clips was smart

    • @imark7777777
      @imark7777777 5 лет назад

      @@metaspencer I was between a set at Walmart and a set an a bargain Close out store, from what I could tell thoroughly looking at them in the store they looked good and that they were supposedly 2 gauge. the price was about the same and I couldn't see the Walmart version which was smaller.
      So I went with these big suckers they're about the size of my thumb and nice and flexible, now if only my fuse holder would come in I would have to force myself to find a way through the firewall and be good.
      My biggest inverter is a 750w MSW :-( I keep saying my next is going to be a true sine-wave output it runs things more efficiently and some audio/amps/motors don't like modified. so I'm like way overkill anyway with a little bit of expansion.
      And all I have to do is get some ring terminals, nuts and bolts and I can put clips on whatever I want, or use them as clamps.
      Another thing I did instead of ring terminals is I got some electrical terminals that you usually bolt to a bus bar and have a screw tightened clamping mechanism to put the wire in and tighten it down which will make it easy to remove or change in the future. I do a lot of stuff with the end goal of having it be removable with minor changes, considering I went through three cars in six months :-( I am certainly looking at how easy it is to remove in 30 minutes while the guys watching you at the junkyard. I had to rip out my Bluetooth aftermarket radio and any other modifications I wanted to save and even tried to get the full tank of gas that I just put in…

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  5 лет назад

      @@imark7777777 Sounds like a good set-up and approach to me! You're gonna love it

    • @imark7777777
      @imark7777777 4 года назад

      The funny thing is a day or two after making this last comment my fuse holders finally came in and they sat around for a while. I Finally got everything in and it's all done and it works nice. I was looking around for a small disconnect to turn off and not drained the battery when not in use and decided to go with my original plan of using the second fuse holder.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  4 года назад

      Awesome! Great to have it running

  • @juantoledo8595
    @juantoledo8595 3 года назад

    Great video

  • @flipmode00
    @flipmode00 5 лет назад +1

    great job

  • @elmurito1
    @elmurito1 3 года назад

    You could have done a better bracket for your inverter! But the important thing is that it works for you.. 👍🏻 good job

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Haha … you are absolutely right!

  • @JayHernan
    @JayHernan Год назад

    Nice video dude. My only concern is that copper clad aluminium (the jumper cables) gets brittle and can be dangerous.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад +1

      Thanks for the tip! I'll check that out periodically

  • @finnleygordon577
    @finnleygordon577 6 месяцев назад

    How could I wire it to a aux switch

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  6 месяцев назад

      just put that aux switch where you want it and either interrupt the power feed or use a relay

  • @annusaanu
    @annusaanu 3 года назад

    If I want to get this done, who would I look for who could do this safely?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      A shop that does car radio/audio installation could probably do it. Just call them and see.

  • @miguelcastillo3712
    @miguelcastillo3712 3 года назад

    I have a 5000/10000 inverter for my semi could you tell me what size breaker I would need?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +1

      You need some thick wire for that one, so 2/0 wire. You should also have a fuse on the circuit. The breaker size should be something you can find on a site like this one: www.altestore.com/howto/recommended-inverter-cables-sizing-and-breakers-or-fuses-a62/ ... good luck with it man!

  • @cbenson1820
    @cbenson1820 3 года назад

    I also want to own a work truck. I have a 30-gallon air pump. It is big and I want to use it. I need to do this?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      You just have to see how many amps the air pump requires, them see if your inverter produces enough power

    • @cbenson1820
      @cbenson1820 3 года назад

      @@metaspencer The air compressor manual is marked as 120V, 15A, can it be started? I don't understand electricity, hope you can enlighten me, thank you

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      20 or 30 amp inverter should work for you

  • @aamirwork3006
    @aamirwork3006 3 года назад

    CAN USE IN OFF ENGINE OR TO START CAR ALSO

  • @applemonkey_1874
    @applemonkey_1874 3 года назад

    if you heat the copper lug then fill i 3/4 of the way with solder.dip your wire...refill the lug then put your wire in permanently you will never have a issue as long as u heat shrink the lug after its cooled

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +1

      Oh what a great idea. Thanks for that tip! Good one

  • @Dredster747
    @Dredster747 3 года назад

    Is there a reason you chose to use jumper cables instead of heavy gauge wire? I feel like heavy wire would be much cheaper and do just as good of job.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +1

      I got the jumper cables cheap ... just use what works for ya

  • @SJS_Devin
    @SJS_Devin 3 года назад

    If I do this can I leave the switch on without it killing the battery when the car is off or will I need to switch it off everytime the car is off?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      As long as you don't have a draw or anything plugged in and using power, you can leave the system on

    • @SJS_Devin
      @SJS_Devin 3 года назад +1

      @@metaspencer i use it to run studio speakers. I run power through the AC plug but the bass hits too hard on some songs and it doesn't have enough power to keep the inverter from overloading and turning off so I was gonna do ths

    • @SJS_Devin
      @SJS_Devin 3 года назад

      @@metaspencer so turning the inverter off wouldn't work? It'll still draw?

  • @thomasm7418
    @thomasm7418 4 года назад

    that's very cool

  • @ryambo8713
    @ryambo8713 3 года назад

    Good Job. I would heat shrink the terminals, there could be a chance of shorting the terminal on the CB to the chassis of the truck

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Oh good idea! Never thought of that. Maybe I'll apply some liquid electrical "tape" ... thanks!

  • @challenger0126
    @challenger0126 3 года назад

    Like the set , but the only thing I would change is the location of the off/on switch I would find a place in the cab.👍🏻

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      cool idea, especially if you plan to use it a lot

  • @michaelhorsford403
    @michaelhorsford403 6 лет назад +3

    Me & pop watched & both enjoyed nice work ..

  • @Reliable1102Intel
    @Reliable1102Intel Год назад

    Personally, I think going underneath along the frame rails and coming up through the bottom of the bed would have made a cleaner job. Also if you ever remove the cable a rubber plug could fill the hole. I have a cobra 1800 watt inverter and have thought about installing it in my 2018 sierra, but the 28 feet of wire was cost preventive but yhe harbor freight jumper cables might work.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Год назад

      I see your point on that routing method for the wire but didn't want to come in low as I was thinking about water infiltration. But I see your point.

  • @DS-TRUCKS
    @DS-TRUCKS 2 года назад

    Very nice!

  • @derrikhamby1217
    @derrikhamby1217 2 года назад

    Just one thought as an electrical engineer, the heavier wire is on the DC side and also AC has less loss per foot distance so if you can keep inverter closer to battery, you will save money on wire and results with better AC voltage at outlets

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  2 года назад

      Makes good sense. Thanks man

  • @duanewing3008
    @duanewing3008 3 года назад

    It is not necessary to run a negative wire to the Inverter. You can use the vehicle as a negative common for the Inverter and double the positive wire size. I've done it and it is safe!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      You're absolutely right -- I just prefer to homerun too the battery on an instance like this

  • @danramirez8578
    @danramirez8578 3 года назад

    Excellent video

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Thank you very much! I'm glad it was useful!

  • @monkeymaster6489
    @monkeymaster6489 3 года назад

    How can you tell how many batteries you need to run the 2000W inverter?

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад

      Depends on draw. 1 battery is fine but will die fast with big draw

  • @ianparsons1257
    @ianparsons1257 3 года назад

    How did you crimp the wire when in the truck as you now don’t have the vice to use ?
    Thanks.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  3 года назад +2

      I've had that question a few times. Without a crimper I used a pair of vice grips, sandwiching the wire between screwdrivers. That puts a nice dent in the fitting. Some will add solder to the end too