Electrical question - Horizons Unlimited

**ekaphoto** · #1 17 Oct 2003

I want to add a cigg lighter to my bike so I can plug in my gps and or air pump. I know how to do the wiring, that is simple. The question is how much amperage can I use before I start to draw more than the bikes alternator puts out? I plan to go directly off the batt with an in line fuse, so no problems there. What is the max amp fuse I could I put in ? Thanks.

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John

**Grant Johnson** · #2 18 Oct 2003

15 amp fuse is the normal max for bike accessories.

The GPS draws a miniscule amount, the bike won't even notice it.

Air pump is presumably only running with the engine off, so it's not the alternator that matters but the battery size. You should have no problem blowing up a tire or two, assuming a decent sized 12V battery. (you don't say what bike so I can only guess)

There are some advantages to using the BMW plug system, it's more resistant to corrosion from water and the elements generally than a standard car type cigarette lighter plug.

John Deere Tractors apparently have a BMW compatible plug, similar quality, for less.

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Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
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One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

**beddhist** · #3 18 Oct 2003

In Europe it's available from Conrad Electronic in surface mount or build-in version. Rubber cap extra. They also carry all the adapters, etc.

Don't know whether they ship across the pond.

www.conrad.com.

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Salut from Southern France, the bikers' paradise,

Jenny & Peter.