Where to mount a 12 volt power port?

[SpyderAnn01]

I'd like to add an additional 12 volt outlet on my RT that would be closer to me than the one inside the rear trunk. Where have you mounted one and how difficult is it to install?

 

[NancysToy]

I used Powerlets, both because they are smaller and because they hold the plug better. On my 2010 I installed them in the Y-panel that surrounds the glovebox. Big pain, since the entire glovebox must be removed, and there is precious little room, so they must be mounted in exactly the right place. On the 2011 I mounted them in the upper inside portion of the front speaker grills. Much easier installation, and it works well, although you may have to hold the speaker grill in while you unplug, lest the grill pops out instead. Sorry, no pictures. pps:

 

[SpyderAnn01]

Thanks Scotty.

 

[ThreeWheels]

I ran a pigtail to a powerlet that I keep behind the left access panel.
The pigtail is long enough that I can pull it out when I need it, for instance heated clothing, and then I can put it out of sight when it's not in use.
The powerlet has a spring loaded cover so that it stays closed and weather protected when I don't use it.

 

[SpyderAnn01]

Thanks - ordered both ideas from Powerlet.

 

[freebob]

If you don't mind removing your analog gauges they can be replaced with blanks and powerlet receptacles can be mounted in blanks and your fuel and temp will be displayed digitally on your console display, A few RT owners have done this and posted pics and results in forum..and there are switched power sources on each gauge you could use for powerlets just don' exceed I believe 3 amp load which is fine to power cell phones, radar detectors, Ipod chargers an such.


Freebob...:doorag:

 

[Yfactor]

Here is where I had mine mounted.

 

[cjackg]

Here's the dual 12v outlet I mounted in my RT front trunk. Got it at O'Reillys Auto Parts.

 

[MarkLawson]

I use the Gerbing heated clothing so have two Gerbing plugs under the saddle. I pull them out and let them hang to the side when in use. Since they are connected directly to the battery with a 15 amp fuse, I find they can be used for pretty much anything I need. I have wired a Gerbing end to a standard power outlet that plugs in and can power anything up to a 15 amp draw. Also use it for my battery tender.

have zip-tied the Gerbing leads to the saddle sensor wire and then stuff the Gerbing leads down the hole when not in use.

 

[NancysToy]

Here is where I had mine mounted.

That's where I mounted them on my 2010 RTS. Not much wiggle room, and a pain to remove the glovebox, but a convenient, useful location. Thanks for the picture, I had none to illustrate what I was talking about.

I use the Gerbing heated clothing so have two Gerbing plugs under the saddle. I pull them out and let them hang to the side when in use. Since they are connected directly to the battery with a 15 amp fuse, I find they can be used for pretty much anything I need. I have wired a Gerbing end to a standard power outlet that plugs in and can power anything up to a 15 amp draw. Also use it for my battery tender......

Gerbing has a kit that includes the heated gear harness and an extension that ties into a power outlet. At present, that is what is installed on the speaker grill of my 2011 RTS, with the help of a heated gear (coax) extension cable. I will be switching that to dual Powerlet outlets this week, though. I run heated gear, when I use it, from the Powerlets, with a Powerlet adapter made for use with BMWs.

 

[tnhoover]

If you don't mind removing your analog gauges they can be replaced with blanks and powerlet receptacles can be mounted in blanks and your fuel and temp will be displayed digitally on your console display, A few RT owners have done this and posted pics and results in forum..and there are switched power sources on each gauge you could use for powerlets just don' exceed I believe 3 amp load which is fine to power cell phones, radar detectors, Ipod chargers an such.

So I have a couple of questions:

1.) Any idea where to get the blanks or is this something I will have to manufacture myself?

2.) Are you saying I can use the power that was already there for the gauges to connect the powerlet and run say a GPS or Cell Phone?

(As you can see I am no electrical wizard)

 

[SteveMac]

Here is where mine is mounted. Tight fit and required some triming, but I have no problems and it is very convenient.

 

[NancysToy]

So I have a couple of questions:

1.) Any idea where to get the blanks or is this something I will have to manufacture myself?

2.) Are you saying I can use the power that was already there for the gauges to connect the powerlet and run say a GPS or Cell Phone?

(As you can see I am no electrical wizard)

You will have to adapt something or fashion your own blanks. I don't remember what others used.

I would not recommend using the gauge lighting circuit for power. Not enough amperage, not large enough wire. You should not tap into any existing circuit except one designed for accessories. Doing so can cause problems. On the 2010 RT, there is an unswitched accessory harness tied to the left suspension tower. Access requires removing the trunk, however. On the 2011, it appears they have done away with this circuit extension. I have not had the trunk off, but I havenot found the harness with the other panels off.

IMO, you should install a dedicated, fused pigtail to feed the outlet(s), or you should install an auxiliary fuse block to provide the power. The Gerbing kit has everything you need but a coax extension cable. The Powerlet kits have much of what you need, but you will need some electrical/mechanical skills and some wire. Eastern Beaver may be able to fix you up with everything you need for a relatively painless installation. Still, you may want to get some help from someone who understands auto/motorcycle electrical systems.