cigarette lighter sockets - thicker cable

[vanvliet]

What is the best sized 12v cable to go for and where is the cheapest source of supply ?(preferably anywhere in Central Scotland - no point in forking out for post if I can avoid it ) .
I am running two lengths from LHS and RHS rear cig sockets so need a fair bit of cable .Tried my local motor factor but the stuff they had looked thin . Then tried electrical supplies but they do not supply two core 12v

[Matt&JoyBongling]

How about a single core + supply & earth to the bodywork near the socket?

[Colin H F]

It all depends on what current ( amps ) you will be carrying, but if you go for ordinary domestic wiring from most D I Y shops, 240volt grade will be ok to use, your calculations are, ohms law, wattage divided by voltage = current

[vanvliet]

I run a DVD and a WAECO CoolFreeze CF-18 – Compressor Cooler Fridge / Freezer it has an approximant power consumption of 35W .I intend connecting both sockets to the leisure battery which has a split charge relay system

[stringman]

I can get a 30metre reel of 28/0.30 twin core from Beal UK in Leeds for £14.91 + carriage + Vat. They are a trade supplier but might supply you direct on your credit card.

Tel number 0113 253 8888

[g8dhe]

Two factors that put the use of mains cable in question first abrasion resistance and secondly smoke generation if over heated. I don't know what the standards say on this but I know it concerns me to the point that I am rewiring our conversion alterations to use modern thin walled automotive wiring. If anybody knows what the standards are I would appreciate any links.

[madmile]

Two factors that put the use of mains cable in question first abrasion resistance and secondly smoke generation if over heated. I don't know what the standards say on this but I know it concerns me to the point that I am rewiring our conversion alterations to use modern thin walled automotive wiring. If anybody knows what the standards are I would appreciate any links.

I am not sure what the regulations are for vehicles, but when I opened a bonnet on someones van and saw 3 core flex used for the split charge system my first thoughts were what a shoddy job, and what other parts have they used what was available as opposed to what was made for the job (big converter, not DIY).
Vehicle wiring products are a good and reasonably priced source of cable and you can choose between normal and thin wall, and virtually any colour you want.
I would have thought of you go for around 20Amp it will be more than up to anything you care to throw at it - but obviously not inverters .

[Colin H F]

re the smoke issue, you can get buy low fume cable what speaks for itself

[dandywarhol]

Not sure if household cable is up to vehicle vibrations - less strands I guess.........

[vanvliet]

20a it is then as I have no need for an inverter. Thanks to you all for the advice .

[g8dhe]

Noting your original message I found these people reasonable to deal with, prices seemed acceptable provided you can get sufficient together to warrant the postage as is normal these days.

[rabbitsquasher]

Lucas service do good stuff if you are still looking, they also give good advice...as mentioned just go to vehicle body for earth, for the current supply you are requiring, maybe a braded earth strap would suit (like one from battery to earth) make absolutely certain you have a good solid connection, if you dont, an earth connection can get mighty hot at high amperage. Also make sure your lighter socket is rated correctly, most are 5 or 10 amp. You can opt for a 12v outlet but again check the rating

[vanvliet]

I had intended just using two standard Bongo rear cig sockets but fitted with thicker cable .Are they up to the job or should I buy new ones ? As you can tell, electrics are not something I am comfortable with

[rabbitsquasher]

you'll know fairly soon if they're up to the job or not! I would recommend 12v outlets for the draw you're requiring, 35 amps is a lot, of course, you may not be actually drawing that much.... I used to be in the trade, I once fitted some ordinary sockets to a Jeep cherokee to run a docs defribulator (did i spell that right?!!) (you know what i meant!) first use made a nice hole in the plastic surround! That was 20A.

It's 12 years ago but the memory has stuck firmly!

[madmile]

you'll know fairly soon if they're up to the job or not! I would recommend 12v outlets for the draw you're requiring, 35 amps is a lot, of course, you may not be actually drawing that much.... I used to be in the trade, I once fitted some ordinary sockets to a Jeep cherokee to run a docs defribulator (did i spell that right?!!) (you know what i meant!) first use made a nice hole in the plastic surround! That was 20A.

It's 12 years ago but the memory has stuck firmly!

Its 35watts - not 35 amps, so in real terms only about 2.9 amps. A compressor coolbox /fridge is not a particularly big power draw, but its better to give yourself more capacity if its not much more money.