We have to switch the plug for our fridge from 12v to 3pin when switching to hook up.
When we unplugged the 12v plug thingy it basically fell to pieces and we can’t find all the bits.
Do I get a new plug or do I have to get a complete new lead?
Its a standard 12v accessory plug available from Halfords, loads on line. Check the fuse that was in there, and check the new plug has the same rating.
The 12v plug should come apart, probably a screw holding the two halves together, there should be a fuse in there as well. What it looks like is the screwed fitting at the end has come off and contact has gone walk about.
How to wire a plug Here Get one with a fuse I suggest
Post last edited on 16/05/2018 23:00:41
------------- 74,going on 25
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OT
I'm no electrician but I could never quite fathom out why after all of these years,these "cigar lighter" type sockets/plugs have remained the "norm" for powering accessories..?
Some (many?)seem to be a bit "vague" in use ..and some of the *cheaper and nastier ones, are very sloppy and probably dangerous too.
(*I'm not saying that the OP's was in that category)
Having said that, IF the OP's plug isn't damaged as such(melted), then the missing pieces(collar/centre contact pin..spring?) couldn't have gone that far?..and being bright/shiny should be easy enough to find?
(that's assuming that it all conveniently fell apart in the van..and not on the driveway or way from the garage/shed/spare bedroom? )
The sockets started out life in cars as cigarette or cigar lighters which would run for about a minute so would not get very hot. They were rated at 10Amps
Using them as a power supply for a heavy current user like a fridge and then using it continuously causes them to heat up.
Some cars have accessory sockets which are the same but rated at 20 Amps. These at much better for powering fridges.
These plugs don't usually have screw fittings inside to secure the wires, but have soldered connections, with the centre spring pin being the positive/red wire, and the side being the black/ground wire.
Even if you buy a pre-wired socket, its highly likely that the other wire ends will have to be soldered to the coolbox
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Topic: Camper van fridge - 12v issue
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