Forum Discussion

Kach's avatar
Kach
Explorer
Jan 28, 2021

Adding a circuit to distribution panel

Well shortly after getting this all sorted in our last travel trailer, we just upgraded to a new to us Keystone Sprinter Campfire 5th wheel. While it’s pretty close to perfect for our needs, it unfortunately did not come with a single 12v or USB outlet!

There is a nice shelf under the TV which happens to be right above the fuse box with pretty easy routing through the cabinet. My plan is to make this shelf a “charging center” for topping up our devices while camping.

Correct me if I’m wrong but it looks fairly simple - hot goes to the empty space on the fuse panel and ground to the ground block. I’m planning on 2-3 USB outlets (3a) with one of which also having the built in voltmeter since I don’t have one on this rig.

Would a 15a fuse be sufficient?

Any other considerations or ideas while I’m in there?
  • I believe the OP wants a 12 volt DC USB port setup or at least that is the way I read it.
  • I’ll probably use #12 or 14 (or better depending on what I have on hand). I’m assuming I shouldn’t need an inline fuse if I’m wiring back to a fused circuit.

    I’m talking about just 12v system here - I want to be able to use the outlets for dry camping when we don’t have hookups.
  • Why not just change the outlets for ones with usb ports?
  • In OP's case he should be running at least 14 wire and in his case many USB outlets do not have fuses they are an inline. Weak spot in the system is the outlet. I installed marine style two USB receptacle that are each rated five amps.
  • Fuse is to protect the wire. What size wire?
    Unless you are going smaller than #16 the 15 amp is fine.