Dealing with the many 12V accesory cables in cockpit

[atodalen]

I've been frustrated with the mess of 12V power cables in the cockpit lately. At times I've had as many as 6 items tied into the 12V accessory power plug. Let's see, there's the GPS, TPMS, Road Master Even Brake monitor, CB, Netbook with Streets and Trips running, and quite often smartphone chargers. I was running 2 daisy chained 3 socket power connectors to get everything plugged in. Power was constantly being dropped when the plugs worked loose after bumping down the road a ways. I don't know how the rest of you are dealing with it. I suppose one could hard-wire as many items as possible but I've recently learned of the Anderson Power Pole product line. Wouxun Radios, Crimp Tools, Power Supplies & Power Poles for Sale | Powerwerx (I'm not affiliated with them in any way). I was able to remove the cigarette style power plugs and replace them with the Power Pole connectors and a Power Pole power distribution block. I believe it'll make for a much more reliable connection and looks much better in my opinion. They do offer an optional locking link if needed. Hopefully this will solve my problems and give me the ability to add more low current accessories as needed. Just thought that I'd mention the Power Pole option in case you weren't aware of them like me.

[SkipRD]

Interesting. I came up with a similar solution, but used a RigRunner, which provides fused connections for the Anderson Powerpoles:
BLOG.SKIPRD.COM: Electrifying add-ons....



The best part of the setup is that the elimination of the rat's nest of wires keeps the DW happy, and you know what they say about "if momma ain't happy..."

Skip

[ctpres]

I just added a ten position fuse block, relay and lighted switch. Hardwired all nav devices and three extra power outlets to fuse block. At end of day I flip one switch and everything ( two cameras, two monitors, dash cam, tpms, gps, two phone chargers and two fm transmitters) turn off. I LOVE my toys!

[atodalen]

Skip - Great picture and nice write-up on your blog. It does a much better job of illustrating the product and it's potential. Your set up should give you more than enough current handling capacity for future needs and definitely a better way to go. I may have to invest in the separate USB charger in the future, it makes a nice add-on.

ctpres - Also a great idea. Thanks for sharing.

[TdogKing]

That's pretty cool, I've been thinking of cleaning my Doghouse in my Class B. Every time I'm on the road I hate the mess of wires etc..