Rear 12V power socket

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Maxwell Smart
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So yesterday I plugged a device into the rear 12v power socket for the back seats. Nothing happened - so assuming it was a malfunctioning plug I put one in known to work. Nothing. Now this plug doesn't work in the front socket either. Both devices were plugged in while the G was running.

So I am assuming there is some kind of power surge or short circuit. I checked the fuse box (13 and 15) and both are fine. So I get a third charger and plug it in the front and it seems to work - tried it in the read and no luck again but fortunately this is an intelligent charger which doesn't get fried and still works in the front.

So any suggestions on how to sort this out? If it was a short or something wouldn't it blow the fuse? All of the other electronics on the same fuse seem to be functioning correctly....

shakir
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

Hi maxwell, got your pm. Whan it comes to plugs and sockets (12v lighter type) my experience tells me to focus on the below mentioned points.
1. Most of the sockets used in cars are not good, not providing a good fitting with the plugs
2.Most plugs used by numerous 12v gadgets are not good either.
And most plugs they have their own fuse inside, keep an eye on those fuses. This might be your problem.
so, bad socket,bad plug equalls no contact and no connection
If non of the above is your problem I would disconnect the faulty socket
and put new sockets and rewire them if necessary. I have replaced my one on the dash as well.
I am using marine grade sockets and plugs (SUTARS) in my setups now-the only one worthy of G wagen. Which clicks like a gun gartridge -precission fitting -and you know you have the connection. Best in the market used by pros. It doesnot vibrate or come out. Amazing stuff really.
If you need some work done we can have a look at it at a convenient time.

Maxwell Smart
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

Thanks Shakir - I'm fairly certain that there is a connection as it does seem to be blowing chargers. Is it fairly straight forward to swap sockets? Are they just pressed in? Though having said that you have a 460 so it maybe different to mine.

Where can I get these Sutar plugs. I'd like to try and keep the OEM cover. if possible. But then again the thought of being able to have multiple sockets.... me thinks a second battery may be in order.

Maxwell Smart
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

Oh another two questions for you -

1) do the cigarette chargers themselves have different outputs and inside/outside polarity or is it "universal"?

2) do you know much about wiring in general? was thinking of installing this aux input.

shakir
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

universal- center (+), sides (-)
I am not too bad, fixing all my G's issues, amplifiers, sound system lightning, fans, charging systems auxilary sytems, I say I am getting there.
what is that for precisely it looks like a straight forward fitting to me.

Maxwell Smart
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

Is the universal true of the output as well? I have a dvd player for my kid and the car charger is terrible quality. That and I want to have my PDA plugged in at the same time so I was thinking of getting a charger with dual usb outputs so I can swap cables as I need them.

The device is so I can add an aux-in to my radio. I want my GPS/MP3s to go through my car stereo.

But was also thinking about getting an FM modulator as I hear that the new ones with Phase Locked Loop technology are very good - though have never seen one in action.

shakir
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

output is universal as well unless someone fiddled with it. when you are connecting 2 devices on a sigle power unit unless the power unit is build for it you should take extra precaution
1.make sure you are not overloading the cables
2.or the fuse which will keep blowing
3.power unit may get extra hot, which is not safe or ideal. should be well ventilated.
Dont have any experience about Fm modulators but that device is surely a simple add on. Have you received my second PM.? it is not showing in my folder

Maxwell Smart
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Re: Rear 12V power socket

yes the device is simple and clean but expensive and not 100% sure it will work so is a risk.

no i haven't received second pm.