Creating a Portable Power Pack for the Car Accessories.
by Mjtrinihobby in Workshop > Cars
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Creating a Portable Power Pack for the Car Accessories.
In order to run car equipment without having to turn on the engine, you need a large amp hour car battery or a pluggable type external battery. My car battery is 6 amp hour and weighs 2lbs. When I was my car equipment on without running the engine I need an external pack to achieve this. Read on for how I did this!
The Battery.
This lifepo4 battery is extremely safe and can be recharged with the car alternator or a standard 12volt battery charger. At 12 amp hour it has plenty headroom to run low powered 12 volt equipment.
Providing Power to the Car.
I soldered two pairs of 4mmsq wires to the battery terminals. On one of these pairs I soldered the 12volt standard power plug for the car. I made sure to disconnect the led to prevent parasitic drain. I used liquid tape to insulate all connections.
In order to use with the car, just plug into a 12volt socket and put the car key to accessories position.
In order to use with the car, just plug into a 12volt socket and put the car key to accessories position.
Providing a High Current Socket.
To one of the pairs I soldered an XT60 dc plug to allow high current devices to be connected. I made sure to follow the polarity markings on the plug.
Cable Management.
I zip tied a velcro cable wrap onto one of the 4mmsq wires. This I used to safely secure the 12volt car plug when not in use.
Completion.
Here it is. The complete portable power pack. Later on I may add a dedicated charger to it to allow easy charging after use.
Adding a 12volt Socket.
I put this socket in to power standard 12 volt equipment such as led headlamps, tire inflators etc.
On Board Charger With Voltmeter.
I wanted easy charging so I wired in a 3 stage 12volt battery charger. I also put a voltmeter to allow for easy checking of the battery status.
Carry Case.
Using a low cost lunch container, I bundled everything into an easy to carry power pack.