I’m thinking about adding a cigarette lighter receptacle to the bed of my HD. I fly RC helicopters and sometimes I need to recharge the batteries while at the field. Currently I am using an extended cable from within the cab leading out to the bed to charge my helicopter. I thought it would be more convenient to have a receptacle installed in the bed. I am a little concerned about having a “hot” wire leading from the battery to the back of the bed. If any of you guys are automotive electrical gurus can you please give me your suggestions for thoughts?

 

hey blwnhd, haven't seen ya around in a while. how ya been? any new mods lately?

not sure how to help ya with your question, but good luck figuring something out

 

Ya might think about running it through a switched lead from the interior. In another words, You'd have to flip the switch inside, before you had power to the lighter circuit in the bed. I'd also think about an in-line fuse.

 

The in line fuse would be a good idea, I don't know if it is necessary but probably a good idea.
Two options for the receptacle if you do not want to go right from the battery.
1) Which I would do is to hid a toggle switch in the cab and run it inline from there.
2) You could tap into the accessories switch and run from there to the back. But you keys would have to be in the accessories on position to work the charger.
The switch is the most practical way I think. Hope this helps.

 

Thanks for the suggestions.