I want to install an AC outlet, but I want it to already be alternated

[part.changer]

I would like to have a couple AC outlets in my truck. That brings up two issues: (1) a clean install and (2) getting power to the outlets.

I realize that I can buy an inverter, wire it in, and get power, but I have also been told that there exist kits that will take power after the alternator and send it to the AC outlet. That would yield a current that is already in AC form resulting in a much steadier and stronger flow; it would also require the engine to be running.

As such, I'd like one outlet that is just inverted DC and one that is coming after the alternator for the "better" power.

Install suggestions are welcome as well.

2000 Silverado, new body style, two-door

[helo]

Bad idea. The frequency of your alternator is not constant, you'll get nothing even remotely similar to the mains 60hz. (50hz rest of world)

You can run the alternator's 3-phase through a transformer to step up the voltage to ballpark of 90-130v, but the frequency varies by rpm. I suppose this could be made to work for simple AC->DC power packs (certain battery chargers, phone chargers, etc), but I really wouldn't recommend doing such an install. You're too likely to fry something that depends on 60hz mains.

And then the whole issue of being able to have A/C with engine off. A quality deep cycle battery is reasonable at tractor/truck shops. I paid $95 for a deep cycle truck battery bigger than any optima I've seen (regular price was $135)

[part.changer]

Interesting perspective. So, you recommend installing a very large battery to serve as the power for my inverter? Do you have any specific battery and inverter recommendations?


Bad idea. The frequency of your alternator is not constant, you'll get nothing even remotely similar to the mains 60hz. (50hz rest of world)

You can run the alternator's 3-phase through a transformer to step up the voltage to ballpark of 90-130v, but the frequency varies by rpm. I suppose this could be made to work for simple AC->DC power packs (certain battery chargers, phone chargers, etc), but I really wouldn't recommend doing such an install. You're too likely to fry something that depends on 60hz mains.

And then the whole issue of being able to have A/C with engine off. A quality deep cycle battery is reasonable at tractor/truck shops. I paid $95 for a deep cycle truck battery bigger than any optima I've seen (regular price was $135)

[sunburnedaz]

You want a deep cycle battery look for the one with most AMP hours on it for your best run time. as for the inverter their are two types, full sine wave inverters and modified sine wave convereters. Modified sine wave converters are lower cost and tend to have higher outputs than full sine wave converters. The trade off is that motors run hotter and less effeciantly on a modified sine wave than a full sine wave. The other thing is some sensitive electronics can be damaged by modified sine wave power.

A great resourse for this kind of stuff would be RV and motorhome boards since a lot of the mid sized units use 1 or more inverters and batteries to provide power with the engine off and no generator.