Rear A/C outlet uses

[yota1976]

I tried using the A/C outlet in the back to charge my kids tablet once and it barely done anything. I noticed on the power button, it looks to have two settings, but it didn't make a difference...unless I didn't do it correctly. Have you guys used it much?

 

[NOT SURE]

I've used mine to run an air pump for inflatables, to charge power tool batteries and without issue. I'm not sure what two levels of power would be useful for but if it's not working at all for you I would assume there is a problem with the converter

 

[meltdown]

The AC outlet puts out 400 watts while in park or neutral and 100 watts while traveling. It is off by default when in gear so you have to turn it on. It is explained pretty well in the manual.

 

[BobsTrail]

Mine works fine when I remember to turn it back on each time I start my T4.

 

[mrblah]

i use it to plug in my hair curlers....

 

[engeeoh01]

Used mine to inflate an aerobed while parked, no problems.


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[TRUSTYAXE]

Can’t say I’ve had any use for mine, some members have used it to power led Christmas lights snuck through the hatch window and wrapped around their roof racks.

 

[Anand]

I tried using the A/C outlet in the back to charge my kids tablet once and it barely done anything. I noticed on the power button, it looks to have two settings, but it didn't make a difference...unless I didn't do it correctly. Have you guys used it much?

For something that draws that little power (~11w for regular USB, up to 30w for USB-PD) the inverter isn't even struggling to keep up even in the 100w mode (out of park). If the tablet wasn't charging, there's something wrong with the charger.

 

[drewsro]

Can’t say I’ve had any use for mine, some members have used it to power led Christmas lights snuck through the hatch window and wrapped around their roof racks.

This is exactly what I use mine for lol

 

[cripes]

Can’t say I’ve had any use for mine, some members have used it to power led Christmas lights snuck through the hatch window and wrapped around their roof racks.

 

[Friggin Idiot]

Can’t say I’ve had any use for mine, some members have used it to power led Christmas lights snuck through the hatch window and wrapped around their roof racks.

But that can lead to water and snow melt getting into the cargo area. I made a waterproof extension cord for mine because it's one of the things I enjoy doing every year!

 

[ElectroBoy]

But that can lead to water and snow melt getting into the cargo area. I made a waterproof extension cord for mine because it's one of the things I enjoy doing every year!

Hey, what a great idea! I was wondering what waterproof plug/socket combo you used, do you have part numbers or a link?
When the season is over do you have a waterproof dust cover to seal up the unused plug at the hatch grommet?
Do you have any more close up photos of the hatch plug?
Thanks.

 

[jp.vegas]

Nothing wrong with the inverter as long as you remember to turn it on when you need it.

I use it to charge my Jackery when in motion. Works great.

 

[Friggin Idiot]

Hey, what a great idea! I was wondering what waterproof plug/socket combo you used, do you have part numbers or a link?
When the season is over do you have a waterproof dust cover to seal up the unused plug at the hatch grommet?
Do you have any more close up photos of the hatch plug?
Thanks.

The plug on the outlet end is just a regular plug repair screw-on type. I went with a 2-prong because it's easier to insert and remove from the outlet, and the lights I converted didn't have a ground to start with.
The waterproof connectors I think were these from Amazon, not high quality, but good enough. I didn't want the pigtail type because I was going to provide my own wire cut to length.

I always meant to go back and make a sealed connector to help protect the connector when not in use. 3 years later and I still haven't gotten around to it. Here's a picture from tonight. It was drizzling on the drive home, and this is about 90 minutes later from inside the garage. It looks to be holding up well, and is pretty protected inside the hinge.

Suggestions for your project:
1) IIRC the hardest part was getting the upper inside trim piece off of the D pillar. Start with this. The lower section is easy since you can access by removing the access panel to the tail light.
2) Run the wire from the top down. I started at the base of the grommet and went down, then pushed the remainder up through the grommet to finish.
3) Solder the wires to the connecting pins on both sides. My initial test pull (in case a branch caught the wire) pulled right out.

 

[euser]

I use the rear plug daily to run a fan for my dog’s kennel.

 

[Kamalani Mahie]

Christmas lights and snowboard boot dryer while I drive!