Adding circuits to the cabin the right way. feedback?

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kem

Joined
Sep 20, 2020
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11
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112
Location
Colfax, CA
Website
www.dissentoffroad.com
As a first project, I wanted to add more 12v power sources to the center console. Thought being, I'd eventually add two wireless charging pads, several usb ports, and an extra 12v outlet or two.

I know how to add one or two devices using a fuse tap, but I wanted to do this the right way (not running it all off one circuit) and give myself room for expansion if needed by putting in a Blue Sea 6 fusebox (with ground). Eventually, I'll go dual battery and run another fuse box to the rear trunk as well. I'd like to make this project future proof so I won't have to redo it with a future setup, and also bone up on my electronics knowledge on a simpler project first. My electronics is rusty, so what am I missing, anything else I need to order (besides wire and fuses)?

For the center console, I'd like this fusebox to only draw power when the car power is on (accessory mode).

Here is the diagram I made, and here are the questions I have.
  1. 8 AWG required all the way to the new fusebox?
  2. What amperage will be needed for the circuit breaker and relay switch? 60amp good, or should I go 80, any tradeoffs or consideration?
  3. Where is the easiest place to tap switched power to the relay? (fusetap to a accessory fuse? Or is there a better way?)
  4. For the relay the do I want a normally open or normally closed relay?
  5. Where should I mount the breaker & relay? I was thinking to put a marine breaker in the engine bay, and just have the relay in the cabin somewhere so I can get switched power from the interior fusebox.
  6. If I ground the fusebox, can I run all the accessory grounds to the fusebox?
  7. What am I missing, or things I haven't considered?
  8. Any relay recommendations (it'll be inside)?

wiring.jpg


Fusebox:
Amazon product ASIN B000THQ0CQ
Something like this for the circuit breaker:
Amazon product ASIN B01FWMM09O


Thanks
 
Start with your load calculation that will determine the sizing of everything you need. Remember the calculations on circuit length are round trip, not one way. Do so for the future second battery as well. While I don’t have all the pieces listed, you can see pics of my dual battery install towards the end in my build thread. I used an add a fuse to trip the soleind to join the second battery while running. I have my fuse panel in the engine compartment, what’s your reasoning for the cabin?
 

i ended up getting this. It has 5 constant 12v and can control 5 accessories. Just makes it easier and cleaner. Mounts perfectly with the Apex mounting plate. I added quick connect to the ends, grounded bus bar and will upgrade the stock ground wire to 8ga copper welding wire, similar to the power. switch will have common ground.

IMG-0472.JPG
IMG-0470.JPG
 
Last edited:
As a first project, I wanted to add more 12v power sources to the center console. Thought being, I'd eventually add two wireless charging pads, several usb ports, and an extra 12v outlet or two.

I know how to add one or two devices using a fuse tap, but I wanted to do this the right way (not running it all off one circuit) and give myself room for expansion if needed by putting in a Blue Sea 6 fusebox (with ground). Eventually, I'll go dual battery and run another fuse box to the rear trunk as well. I'd like to make this project future proof so I won't have to redo it with a future setup, and also bone up on my electronics knowledge on a simpler project first. My electronics is rusty, so what am I missing, anything else I need to order (besides wire and fuses)?

For the center console, I'd like this fusebox to only draw power when the car power is on (accessory mode).

Here is the diagram I made, and here are the questions I have.
  1. 8 AWG required all the way to the new fusebox?
  2. What amperage will be needed for the circuit breaker and relay switch? 60amp good, or should I go 80, any tradeoffs or consideration?
  3. Where is the easiest place to tap switched power to the relay? (fusetap to a accessory fuse? Or is there a better way?)
  4. For the relay the do I want a normally open or normally closed relay?
  5. Where should I mount the breaker & relay? I was thinking to put a marine breaker in the engine bay, and just have the relay in the cabin somewhere so I can get switched power from the interior fusebox.
  6. If I ground the fusebox, can I run all the accessory grounds to the fusebox?
  7. What am I missing, or things I haven't considered?
  8. Any relay recommendations (it'll be inside)?

View attachment 2449365

Fusebox:
Amazon product ASIN B000THQ0CQ
Something like this for the circuit breaker:
Amazon product ASIN B01FWMM09O


Thanks
Have you made any progress on this? I'm trying to figure out how to add power that will come on with the ignition also ( number 3 in your list). I like your relay idea. Just need to find a way to power it that is not messy.
 

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