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_DJ_1's avatar
_DJ_1
Explorer II
Jun 17, 2013

Weird 12 volt problem ~ Solved!!!

I wanted to relocate the 12v receptacle to a more convenient place for my Engel. Instead of moving the old one and leaving a hole I went to O Reillys Auto Parts and bought the same exact one that I have been using.

I mounted it about 15" apart from the other one. It won't run the Engel. It will run my inverter and my thermoelectric cooler but not the Engel!!! The original still runs the Engel just fine!!

:h:h:h

25 Replies

  • It is the exact same receptacle with the same length and gauge wire and wired directly to the battery the same as the original.

    Not only will the original run the Engel but I can put a dual receptacle in it and run my tv through an inverter at the same time.

    I just think that is weird.
  • 3_tons's avatar
    3_tons
    Explorer III
    The AWG wire gauge on the new one 'may' too small to carry the current. Thus, wire could overheat.
  • Help people out here...

    "Won't run" how? What happens when you plug it in and turn it on? Does it pop fuses, or stand up and sing the Star Spangled Banner, or what?

    How did you wire it? Did you wire it from the existing plug, or run a separate circuit? What gauge wire?

    What does the voltage read in the new plug? In the old plug?

    You've got one of three problems most likely:
    1. Bad connection.
    2. Inadequate gauge wire.
    2a. Too long a run.
  • Could be you reversed the polarity and some devices are protected. Some just won't work. Or, your wires are not carrying the current load and the voltage is dropping.

    Grab a voltmeter and touch the outside edges on each of the sockets. If you see voltage the new one is reversed. If it is a low voltage issue you need to measure the voltage right on the back side of the socket while under load.