Member Since: 14 Jun 2015
Location: Brittany
Posts: 60
Just fitted auxiliary power sockets behind the cubby-box
Hello
I recently decided that I needed a few auxiliary power sockets in the back of my Defender. The goal was to have two USB, one 12v socket, plus a free 12v wiring left for later. Everything was to be connected on a permanent positive feed, via illuminated switches when on.
I first bought a "mini-pod" from Mudstuff, originally supposed to be used to fit extra gauges onto a pre-2007 dashboard. I then used a Dremel to make the openings. It is better to have a tiny play in the switches openings, in order to allow the switches' axis to move freely
I chose to make the wiring and to fit it into the car only once finished, instead of working gradually in the car. So, I took the measurements using an old cable with some adhesive tape to hold it and marked the key areas with a pencil onto it.
The connectors. Each cable (1,5mm˛) is marked. I used a cable tie to prevent from tearing out. Massive use of heat shrink sleeving (which works very well with a good hairdryer)
I installed a fusebox (Mudstuff again) onto the extra threaded hole located on the battery terminal, using a short M8 bolt (must be maximum 10mm long to fit properly). The maximum amperage for the wiring and sockets is 16A but I preferred to stay on the safe side by using 10A fuses.
A few adhesive cable clips to hold the wiring in place. It then passes through the hole located beneath the left hand side seat, since I didn't want to make any drilling. I just removed the factory cap and used instead a seatbox grommet ref.269257 (thanks to dorsetsmith for the part reference )
I connected the earth to one of the two bulkhead lip bolts located just behind the left hand seat. (thank to custom90steve for the tip ) I tested them with a multimeter before and after, and it appears that the earth is excellent here. But, surprisingly, it is really poor on the other bolts ...
The wiring splits here ; the positive cables run to the battery, while the negative ones are connected to a big single insulated terminal.
Although handy, using a single connector for three wires is not really conventional. So I used several terminals with an old cable to test the reliability of such a connection first. Crimping is a bit tricky but, once you know how to place the cables, this works very well and the connection is perfect.
Here it is ! Now I can plug my iPhone, iPad, iWhatever ... and a fridge for Mrs Flyingfab
Last edited by flyingfab on 30th May 2016 5:58pm. Edited 1 time in total
30th May 2016 1:06am
adbseries3
Member Since: 27 Apr 2016
Location: sussex
Posts: 49
Very professional job.
30th May 2016 8:20am
huffhuff
Member Since: 05 May 2016
Location: Home Counties
Posts: 379
Very neat indeed. Top jobTD5 Defender 90
Discovery 3 HSE
30th May 2016 8:29am
flyingfab
Member Since: 14 Jun 2015
Location: Brittany
Posts: 60
Thanks
30th May 2016 5:59pm
gilarion
Member Since: 05 Dec 2013
Location: Wales
Posts: 5110
Great how to do write up and a very professional looking job.For those who like Welsh Mountains and narrow boats have a look at my videos and photos at..
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