Replace passenger 12v socket with USB?

[Nolan]

Has anyone replaced one of the rear 12v sockets with one that provides USB charging? Something like the one linked below but better quality (that one looks a bit plasticky). The linked one also shows voltage as suggested on the solar panel thread.

I can't really think of any use for the 12v socket, I've wired my fridge to use Anderson plugs connected directly to the battery to avoid any potential issues with voltage drop on the van wiring.

Presumably they have fixed this on the T6.1 camper and it's got USB sockets everywhere?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07R8JV1LX/?tag=unique09f-21

 

[WelshGas]

Has anyone replaced one of the rear 12v sockets with one that provides USB charging? Something like the one linked below but better quality (that one looks a bit plasticky). The linked one also shows voltage as suggested on the solar panel thread.

I can't really think of any use for the 12v socket, I've wired my fridge to use Anderson plugs connected directly to the battery to avoid any potential issues with voltage drop on the van wiring.

Presumably they have fixed this on the T6.1 camper and it's got USB sockets everywhere?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07R8JV1LX/?tag=unique09f-21

The problem you would have is that unless you can switch it Off then it could flatten Leisure Batteries quite quickly even when not in use. It is really designed for an Ignition controlled circuit.

 

[Loz]

The only issue with these is the electronics inside cannot be switched off or isolated like a plug-in adapter and these will add to the parasitic drain on your leisure batteries when your system is not used for long periods of time.

edit (snap)

 

[EddieEagle]

I have pondered an usb fitment and considered this one ...

but does it require a transformer?
Will continue to cogitate ...

 

[Loz]

I have pondered an usb fitment and considered this one ... View attachment 63171
but does it require a transformer?
Will continue to cogitate ...

That looks like a good solution..

 

[WelshGas]

I have pondered an usb fitment and considered this one ... View attachment 63171
but does it require a transformer?
Will continue to cogitate ...

No it doesn't.
Oh and by the way. That Screen shot shows your name, town and postcode.

 

[EddieEagle]

No it doesn't.
Oh and by the way. That Screen shot shows your name, town and postcode.

Thank you , I missed that header , bugger!!

 

[Nolan]

I have pondered an usb fitment and considered this one ... View attachment 63171
but does it require a transformer?
Will continue to cogitate ...

It does look interesting.

Got a link to that one?

 

[sidepod]

Get one without the volt meter/display. Completely useless/inaccurate and the blue glow will drive you/the current Mrs mad at night, unless of course you put in a switch.

 

[Maxx]

Forgive my ignorance if I am missing something but, would something like this not suffice?

 

[Loz]

Forgive my ignorance if I am missing something but, would something like this not suffice?

Draws power all the time and as @sidepod said the lights might keep you awake.

 

[Maxx]

Draws power all the time and as @sidepod said the lights might keep you awake.

This one doesn’t have lights: Aukey car charger

 

[Loz]

This one doesn’t have lights: Aukey car charger

Yea, I’ve got a few but the OP is discussing fixed usb outlets. (Keep up at the back)

 

[Maxx]

Yea, I’ve got a few but the OP is discussing fixed usb outlets. (Keep up at the back)

 

[Nolan]

I think, having seen the information above, I'm going to get a plugin one and lecture the kids not to leave it plugged in

I'd not appreciated the issues it would cause with parasitic drain but it makes sense thinking about it. Will be easier to check a plug-in charger is removed then making sure a fixed one is switched off I hope.

 

[Rexy99]

A decent quality 12v plug-in USB adaptor will have a negligible current draw if there is no device plugged into it. I’ve used these for years in various vehicles, never unplugged them and never had any issues. Look for Powermonkey, Belkin or another decent make and you’ll be fine.

 

[hirsty]

+1 for cigar lighter adapter - keep it simple. also available with both USB A and USB C together.

 

[Nick&Sara]

Hi there. I purchased one of these USB sockets from Amazon which has a little inductively operated on off switch. I have measured the current draw in line to the socket when off and it draws a micro amp at best to monitor the switch. I piggy backed the supply off the exiting 12V socket next to it so that I did not need to butcher the original wiring in anyway. Apart from the neat hole in the unit which I drilled with a cone cutter it is all pretty standard and it works really well without having to use an adaptor.

 

[Nolan]

Hi there. I purchased one of these USB sockets from Amazon which has a little inductively operated on off switch. I have measured the current draw in line to the socket when off and it draws a micro amp at best to monitor the switch. I piggy backed the supply off the exiting 12V socket next to it so that I did not need to butcher the original wiring in anyway. Apart from the neat hole in the unit which I drilled with a cone cutter it is all pretty standard and it works really well without having to use an adaptor.

View attachment 63485

View attachment 63486

I've been away for a few days so missed this reply but this looks interesting, have you got a link?

 

[Nick&Sara]

Here you go.
Thlevel Dual USB Charger Socket, Dual 5V/4.2A USB Car Charger Power Ou https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07SL9FB5Y/?tag=unique09f-21

 

[Loz]

Here is a quick charge version.
Quick Charge 3.0 USB Car Charger Socket 12V/24V 36W Dual QC3.0 USB Fast Charger Socket Power Outlet with Touch Switch for Marine, Boat, Motorcycle, Truck, Golf Cart (Blue) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07ZJ1PSWR/?tag=unique09f-21

 

[Maxi-Mizer-T6]

After reading this and many other threads, I went for it and replaced the 12v socket in the kitchen's cabinet for some USB-A and USB-C ports. In case anyone is interested in doing this themselves, I've put together a detailed guide on how I did it: https://medium.com/@maxi-mizer/replace-vw-california-kitchen-12v-outlet-with-usb-ports-f5f6394d7993

This is what my kitchen looks like now:

 

[pematthe-1967]

After reading this and many other threads, I went for it and replaced the 12v socket in the kitchen's cabinet for some USB-A and USB-C ports. In case anyone is interested in doing this themselves, I've put together a detailed guide on how I did it: https://medium.com/@maxi-mizer/replace-vw-california-kitchen-12v-outlet-with-usb-ports-f5f6394d7993

This is what my kitchen looks like now:
View attachment 94081

Exactly what I was looking for. Followed the link and saw the pictures as to how to get to the socket gubbins and wiring. Will be doing that ASAP. I might put in an isolating switch as well to prevent any current drain.

 

[Ch1pbutty]

Exactly what I was looking for. Followed the link and saw the pictures as to how to get to the socket gubbins and wiring. Will be doing that ASAP. I might put in an isolating switch as well to prevent any current drain.

Wouldn't worry about isolation switch, draw is tiny.