Niner, unfortunately the laptop is the real issue -- it is a big MacBook Air, and I need it for work. (I work even while we are boondocking -- I write a column on current developments in financial law -- the most boring topic imaginable.) I then upload the columns to the publisher every weekend, when we go to town for groceries.
So even the 400 watt inverter was not doing the job, probably in part because of the inadequate wiring and partly because of the "high wattage brick." That's why I think a bigger inverter makes sense -- an extra cushion of capacity.
I am getting more and more comfortable with the idea of coming right from the battery on the tongue and up through the floor (not the fiberglass). There is a junction box right near the battery, out on the tongue. I will open it up and look inside to see if I can tap into those connections for my power source.
I will probably not be able to get to this project for a couple of weeks (due to actual work), but my hope is to take photos and put together a simple "how to" for other non-experts who need occasional 120v power while dry camping.
