Hi everyone,
I have a MK8 Transit that I'm converting into a camper. Since the van is frequently stationary, I often need to connect a trickle charger to keep the battery healthy. The thing is that opening the bonnet and connecting the charger is a real pain, and not possible in the rain.
What I'd like to be able to do is plug my trickle charger into a 12V cigarette socket (it has the relevant accessory to be able to do this). Unfortunately the sockets on the dash switch off 30 minutes after the engine is turned off, and I need to be able to connect my charger whenever needed. So what I need is a permanently live 12V socket.
I'm a newbie when it comes to vehicle electrics but have attempted to figure out some options by reading the BEMM, but I've only got confused more than anything! I either need to 1) modifiy an existing socket to be permanently live or 2) add a new permanent live socket. I think the new socket is probably the best bet. It doesn't need to be in the dash necessarily, I have cabinets just behind the driver's seat that I could use to house a socket.
Does anyone have any instructions or advice on how to do this? I'm up for trying a DIY approach, and I have quite a few wiring supplies left over from the camper's 12v solar system. One thing to be aware of is that I am already using the van's single CCP as it is connected to a smart battery to battery charger that charges my leisure batteries when driving.
Would really appreciate any help!
Thanks
Rick