HOW TO PUT ELECTIRCS IN A CAMPER VAN

[froggyribbit]

HI there im a complete newbe when it comes to electrics i can plumb decorate the lot but electrics are not my strong point .

ok what im trying to do is convert a old ford transit into a working campervan with full electrics a 12v systems since ill be running off lesiure batteries , and i need help ive never done anything like this before and need some expert help if i cant do it then ill hire some one but i would prefer to do it my self to save money lol .

I have drawn my own electrical diagram i know its not a proper one and with not the proper colours but i was wondering if it would work and if you lot had any tps on where i could put switches to turn the rows of lights off individually and also how can i charge my batteries from a genny and the alternator when the van is driving thanks for the help in advance .

remember im a complete novice at electrics so can you try and keep the electrical jargon to a minimum lol

Untitled

• froggyribbit
• 29 Sep 2008
• 1

Untitled

• froggyribbit
• 29 Sep 2008
• 1

 

[ban-all-sheds]

If you really know so little about electrics that you don't even understand how a switch works then you ought to spend a bit of time learning basics like that before attempting a project like this.

I'm sure you will be able to learn - it's not hard, but doing things, particularly with ELV installations where currents can be high (a 12V microwave oven, for example, draws more than your entire house usually does) which increases the fire risk, shouldn't be on the basis of following instructions without knowing why you're doing them.

You also need to to learn about voltage drop, which is not unnecessary jargon, it's a law of physics ye cannae change and understanding it is essential for working out what cable sizes you need.

The car forum would be a good place to ask about the specifics of connecting alternators etc.

 

[NotHimAgain]

Try this site http://www.the12voltshop.co.uk/Shop/index.php.

Books on boat electrics may be more readily available and the systems will be similar.

 

[froggyribbit]

Thanks thats what im trying to do learn ill have a look at the site probally buy a few books to have a look at , but if it seems like to much hard work and time which i dont have i want it completed after christmas ill get a pro to do it thanks anyway

 

[froggyribbit]

Or does any one know of any good websites where i can learn about all 12 volt electrical wiring and i mean learn from scratch lol thanks again

 

[NewOrder]

Could you just not run it of the existing electrical system? If you have a cig lighter you could buy an invertor which will give you about 300w of 240V power.

Converting a camper is one of my possible future projects and I would nto dream of attempting to install a new system, with high current low voltage circuits and the fact the circuits can easily be damaged just means the fire risk is too high.

Also many camping sites have 240v supplies availible so that is also something to consider.

 

[ericmark]

Although there are replacement alternators available and other weird and wonderful the norm is to use 12 volt for as much as possible LED lighting is some what on the dim side and duel florescent units at 8/16 watt are more the norm about 3 centre of van which is why I would use 12 volt as they are slimmer and less likely to hit your head on.
You will need some split charging, although blocking diodes are suppose to be best I find a duel contact relay does a better job.
Duel is so it both charges second battery and runs fridge when engine is running. You will also need some form of power when static cheap way was always CB power supplies not sure if still available!
As to mains generators are a little anti-social due to noise and most sites do offer hook-ups for 230 volt.
An inverter may run a PC or TV but no way for micro-wave or kettle.
Do remember whole thing is to be wired in flex do not use house hold cable the flexing of the van can damage it.
The van is very small and any wanting leads can very easy become a trip hazard so I fitted enough to ensure there was no need to have any lead on the floor.
Carver heaters can heat the hot water from gas or electric but I used a 7 litre open vented electric one I also used two aqua roles with two pumps and change over switch I lived in my van for 3 years.
I used a fan heater with a dedicated socket feed from a thermostat.
With dedicated sockets for Torch, Micro wave, Heater, Kettle, PC x 4, Water heater, Charger, Fridge, Amateur radio etc. I ended up with 17 x 13 amp sockets maybe I went OTT!
I used micro switches in taps to run water pump, you can use a bellows type switch but should you run out of water they can result in the pump running continuous and burning out.
I wish you all the best with your project.
Eric

 

[NewOrder]

Stop being a wuss and get a decent sleeping back it will be far cheaper .

The only electrics I have in my tent is a torch, mobile phone, MP3 player, laptop, lantern, headphones, rape alarm, bear alarm and an electric zip... ok I am taking the micky out of my camping now

I am just thinking what do you need the electrics for?

 

[ban-all-sheds]

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Blue Peter moment...
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