So you want to know how to install a power inverter in a truck?
Well, you’re in the right place.
This article will guide you through the process and have you generating AC power inside your truck in no time.
Then you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits and run almost any home appliance including TVs, microwaves, laptops, heaters, fans, and much more.
Before you go ahead with the installation just check your inverter is correct for your needs.
If you’re ready to install an inverter in a truck then let’s jump right in, that’s why you’re here after all.
The information below is intended as an overall guide. Every vehicle and inverter is different so if you are not sure at any point then consult a professional.
Installing an Inverter in a Truck (Step-by-Step)
Below is a step-by-step process to easily hook up an inverter in a truck. Before you get going, just check you’ve got everything you need. Most of this is pretty obvious, plus your inverter will usually arrive with the correct cables, lugs, connections, and mounting systems.
What You’ll Need:
- Inverter
- Cables
- Battery
- Mounting System (Screws, Velcro, etc)
- Wire Stripers*
- Lugs*
- Crimping Tool*
- In-line Fuse (optional)
*Not needed if your inverter comes ready with the correct cables etc.
It’s also important to wear safety glasses when making the installation. Batteries contain acid which you don’t want to get in your eyes!
1. Battery Choice
The first thing to decide is what battery you will be connecting to your inverter. Many people use their truck starter battery. If you do this, you’ll need to keep your engine running when using the inverter. To find your starter battery it is usually located next to the engine under the hood or under a seat.
On the other hand, you can also add an extra deep-cycle leisure battery which is separate from your starter battery. This means you won’t risk depleting your starter battery, plus you can use the inverter without running the engine. Many trucks include extra space for additional batteries.
2. Mounting Position
Once you’ve located the battery, you need to find a suitable place to mount your inverter. You want to use a well-ventilated dry area that is not too far from the battery, keeping the cables between the inverter and battery will help to maintain a good voltage. That being said, you should not mount your inverter inside the engine bay, it should be placed inside the vehicle.
You should also consider what items and where you will be running them from so that you can easily plug in your electronics.
Once in position, you should securely mount your inverter. Many units come with built-in mourning plates to screw into place. You could also use zip ties or Velcro.
3. Prepare and Run Cables
Next, you can prepare your cables. The majority of inverters will arrive with preinstalled cables that are hooked up to the positive and negative input terminals. These cables should have handy O-ring connectors to hook up to the battery.
If the cables are not ready to use then you will need to add the lugs yourself. For the correct AWG cable check the user manual or product information. To add lugs you will need to carefully strip the wires to expose the copper wire. Then simply slide the lugs on and crimp so they are snug and tight. Then finish this with electrical tape.
Here’s a useful video to show you how
3.1 Consider in-line fuse
One thing to consider in your cables is the addition of an in-line fuse. Most modern inverters come with built-in fuses. This protects the inverter and the connected appliances. But it will not protect the cables between the battery and inverter. Many people add an in-line fuse to the positive battery block/cable. This means if these wires become damaged or exposed the fuse will protect your circuit. It is not essential but recommended with permanent setups.
To add an inline fuse, you will need to split the positive cable within 7 inches of the battery. Then you will need to strip the cable and add lugs (similar to the instructions above) before securing each end in the in-line fuse.
Now your cables are prepared you can run them from the inverter to the battery. This may require you to drill holes from the cab to the engine bay. Be sure to check where you are drilling through to avoid disaster. Plus if you don’t own the truck then discuss it with the owner before carrying out modifications.
4. Connect Positive
Everything is ready to start actually connecting your inverter to your battery. Begin by hooking the red cable to the red battery terminal. That’s positive to positive. Ensure you get a good snug connection between the lug and the metal terminal.
5. Connect Negative
Next, connect the black cable to the black battery terminal. Be careful here as this is the negative to negative connection which completes the circuit. Make sure your inverter and engine are both turned off when doing this!
6. Add Ground
If you are connecting to an exterior battery then you will need to run a ground wire too. You should see a small outlet on the back of the inverter marked ground. You should run a wire from this outlet to the metal frame of your vehicle. Some inverters don’t need this ground as the metal casing acts on its behalf.
When connecting to a vehicle starter battery you can ignore this step and the negative battery terminal should already be grounded.
7. Test
Time to check everything is working correctly. When hooked up to a vehicle starter battery you should start your engine at this point.
Without any appliances plugged in, switch on your inverter to check everything is working correctly. You should see a green LED light, plus if you have a digital display you can check the input voltage for correct settings.
Any errors at this point should be immediately fixed, you might see a red light or alarm on your inverter. Plus listen out for any bad sounds such as squealing. Problems can include poorly connected cables, reverse polarity (wired backward), overvoltage, or undervoltage. If you have these faults your inverter will not work as it is protecting itself from damage.
8. Enjoy
Got the green light? Then everything is ready to rock. You can start plugging in your electronics and enjoying them in your truck. Just be sure not to overload your inverter with too many devices or by drawing too much load.
Still not sure, check out this video…
Tips for Using a Truck Power Inverter
Now you know how to install an inverter in a truck, let’s go through some helpful tips for the best usage.
Switch Off When Not in Use
My first tip is to switch off your inverter when it’s not in use. This is because an inverter still draws power even when no load is connected. They need electricity to run their internal systems such as safety monitoring, cooling, lights, and screens. This means that if you leave an inverter switched on when not in use it slowly uses your battery power.
That can be very annoying if you don’t have access to easy recharging solutions like a split relay or solar panels. Adding to this, when connected to your starter battery you will get a flat battery leaving you unable to start your truck engine.
Keep Well Ventilated
Inverters need airflow to run their cooling systems. This is especially important for large inverters that produce a lot of power. All this power creates heat which needs to dissipate from your equipment. The vents and fans need ventilation to make this happen. Don’t place your inverter in a sealed box and make sure vents are not blocked or covered. If your inverter starts to overheat it will shut down to protect itself. It will not work until cooled down which will be frustrating if regularly occurring.
Avoid Liquid
These are not devices designed to be used outdoors or near water. Inverters are not waterproof so need to be kept dry. Don’t mount them where there is risk of rain or spillage. If your inverter gets wet then switch it off immediately and let it thoroughly dry out.
Maintenance
Happily, power inverters don’t need too much maintenance. Once installed in your truck you can leave it alone most of the time. That being said, you should still take the time to keep it clean by removing any dust or dirt. You will notice a particular build-up around outlets and cooling fans. Try to remove any dirt or obstructions to your cooling fans regularly for optimal performance.
Final Words on How to Install a Power Inverter in a Truck
Installing an inverter in a truck is a simple process.
With the correct equipment, it shouldn’t take too long before you have AC power for all your appliances.
Just be sure to take the time to install it correctly. If you are not sure then you should consult a professional, there are always dangers when working with electrical systems.
