Power inverters are very useful in van conversions. They allow for adding televisions, DVD players and many other various types of alternating current powered equipment. If the van is used for family trips or parties, the addition of a power inverter is a plus. Adding a power inverter will require a few hours of your time and a few tools. This is a small price to pay if it helps to keep the kids happy during long trips.
Locate the power inverter close to where it will be used. Also, the inverter location should have good airflow so that the inverter can stay cool. Mount it to the van body using screws.
Run the inverter positive and negative wires up to the front passenger compartment. Drill a hole through the front firewall to gain access to the engine bay. Place a rubber grommet into the hole that you just drilled.This will allow the wires to be pulled through to the engine bay without damaging the wires.
Cut the ends off of the positive and negative wires of the inverter and push them through the grommet hole. Go to the engine bay and pull those wires through and over to the battery. Be sure to route the wires around the bay and secure them to the existing wiring harness to keep them under control.
Strip 1/2 to 1 inch of insulation off of each wire. Connect the black negative wire to the negative post of the battery. Connect the positive red wire to the positive post of the battery. Secure both wires.
Turn the power inverter on and check for power at the receptacle. Do not stick anything in to the receptacle other than a plug.
