5 minute Voltmeter Mod

CampHub

Here is a very quick and easy voltmeter mod. $10 Amazon purchase along with a file and 5 mins. You will loose the cigarette lighter power port by your head but there are still 2 others if needed. It uses the same push on connectors as the outlet so no crimping, just keep your polarity correct. Getting cabin fever here!

LuckyJ

Nice. Is it always "on"?

CampHub

@LuckyJ When the battery disconnect switch is on this is on. I have not put a amp meter on it. Best guess, between 10 and 20mA (.01 to .02 Amps).

TaG_Im_It

If you want to keep your 12 volt accessory charger... I used one of these and replaced the stock USB port with Quick Charge capability. Similar 5 minute install, once I talked to my buddy and he said to use a file like CampHub said. BTW - my stock USB ports ALL failed on trip number two and this replacement hasn't let me down.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F84VVB4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

LuckyJ

Ok, thanks!
'Perso, I like to use a momentary switch on a volt meter and an on off switch on a USB charger, since they always draw power. But it is an easy fix with just a samll hole on the side.

But changing an existing cig ligher plug is a great idea.

jh1717

Not sure I understand how this measures the strength of the battery. Is there an easy explanation?

CampHub

@jh1717 said:
Not sure I understand how this measures the strength of the battery. Is there an easy explanation?

For lead acid.

Sharon_is_SAM

@jh1717, if the battery is in use, the measured voltage will be less than when rested. If you measure the voltage while charging the battery via the converter, the meter will reflect the output of the converter only. To measure your battery state of charge, the bottom line is, measure the voltage at rest by disconnecting your battery (if you have a battery switch turn it off) and let the battery rest about 30 minutes. It will reflect a truer charge voltage.