hard wiring a power outlet in slk

[simonjrw]

I have a new 280 SLK. problem is I need multiple power outlets / cigarette lighter outlets in the car. can anyone tell me how / where I can hard wire a dual power outlet into the car and routing.

 

[jberks]

I'd just patch into the existing power outlet. Alternatively buy a plug and a couple of sockets from Halfords or Maplin and make up a 'doubler'. Given the number of 12v gizmos around these days there are probably some pre-manufactured ones about already.
In fact http://www.maplin.co.uk/searchpages/CIGAR_CIGARETTE_IN_CAR_LIGHTER_EXTENSION_DOUBLER.htm

 

[simonjrw]

cheers, I already have a double outlet, the problem is I can't use the existing power outlet as its obscurred by a gizmo and I want to hard wire in the double outlet somewhere else.

 

[Blobcat]

Depends exactly what your after but I ran a seperate fused supply from the battery for additional power sockets. I now have 3 in the front and 2 in the rear. I did not go to the existing power outlet as that is ignition switched. I did not wish to disconnect the dvd player, GPS, Road Angel or 240v inverter. At times my car reminds me of the Simpsons episode where Homer is asked what is plugged into his cigarette lighter socket. He ends up with so much stuff in the car he crashes into the sea whilst watching TV, deep frying food and has to fax the coast guard to save him

 

[simonjrw]

Sounds good, what route into the car from the battery did you use ?

 

[Blobcat]

My battery is under the rear passenger seat so not the hardest cable run I've had to do. The SLK battery is in the boot I believe, if so you should be able to find a route through into the passger compartment. Just be careful and ensure you go via a grommet in the read bulkhead. Ensure you fuse it at the battery end and choose a run where the cable cannot be crushed or short out. Also do not start drilling holes unless you know whats on the other side.

 

[television]

MB do sell a boot kit, for trickle charging.
the problem using internal / standard cigar socket is that the key need to be turned to activate this. I always take a feed from the headlight switch (allways live) through a separate switch too the power outlets, that way they can be killed by the flick of a switch,independent of the ignition switch.
It is easy to hide the sockets on the under dash panels, or in a locker, depending on car. you do not need to use the bulky cigar sockets as there are much more suitable sockets on the market

Malcolm

 

[simonjrw]

thanks a lot , a very useful site.