Solar Ammo Can Alternative Wiring and Disconnect Switch

Подписаться 115 тыс.

Просмотров 19 тыс.

50% 1

300mpg.org/201...
We show a different way to wire the Solar Ammo Can to include a disconnect switch.
Apologies in advance for my microphone acting up.
In our original step-by-step build video ( • Build A Solar Ammo Can... ) we showed how to use the setup with the switch simply turning on and off the outputs, useful for things like being able to turn a 12V LED light on and off without unplugging it. In this video, we show an alternate way to wire the Solar Ammo Can to instead make this a main disconnect switch, connecting and disconnecting the solar charge controller.
Components used in this project are available at: www.amazon.com/shop/benjaminnelson
By popular demand, the laser-cut wood faceplates are available for sale at: 300mpg.org/shop/
Components used in this project include:
Ammo Can, 50 cal.
I really like the MTM brand. Nice boxes, made in the U.S.A. Available in multiple colors. Black and green are both classic, but you might want high visibility orange if you intend to use this as emergency equipment.
amzn.to/2FI8lFw
Sealed Lead Acid Battery, 15AH capacity.
I specifically chose a particular physical size, as it fits perfectly inside the MTM Ammo can. It's also a relatively small battery, which keeps the project weight to right around only ten pounds. I used a "Mighty Max" brand battery.
amzn.to/2FBmroN
20A Solar Charge Controller
I found a nice one which has some good safety features, low-voltage disconnect, and also includes a pair of USB ports built in.
amzn.to/2FAJyjo
Four In One Socket Panel
This is a device typically sold for trucks to add a 12V cigarette lighter outlet, USB ports, a voltmeter, and a switch to turn it all on and off. They are available in several shapes sizes and colors.
amzn.to/2FHxCj4
Banana Jacks
These are used as universal electrical inputs and outputs on the project. This project uses two pairs, but since I knew I'm be using more in the future, I bought a box of 10.
amzn.to/2FMDK9I
12 AWG stranded wire in both black and red
(From local hardware store)
Crimp on electrical terminals, spade and 1/4" ring terminal
Silicone adhesive or hot glue
Industrial type hook and loop fastener (Velcro)
amzn.to/2FMDK9I
Wire Nuts or Wago (Brand) Lever Lock Nuts.
amzn.to/2FBj15k
Fuse Holder and Fuse.
amzn.to/2FMLmJp
6-32 and 8-32 nuts, bolts, and washers
The project also features "accessory items" that simply plug in to the Solar Ammo Can to make it as useful as possible. To start with, we will want to be able to charge the battery.
Solar Panel - I already happened to own a solar panel perfect for this project, a 15 watt PV Solar panel. Any 12V nominal solar panel of about 10 to 20 watts is perfect for this project.
Here's one which looks affordable, and it about the right size and style for the project.
amzn.to/2DlkpHw
DC Power Adapter (Wall Charger)
Any DC wall power adapter of higher than 12V (13.2, 14.4, 18) and one amp will work fine.
I already had a 18V 1.3A power adapter handy.
Here's a similar adapter.
amzn.to/2FMUrBS
The other items I packed into the ammo can were for lighting and AC power.
USB Gooseneck Light
These small USB lights work great. They are very simple and durable. Fantastic for camping.
amzn.to/2GhvQTy
100 Watt AC Power Inverter.
This device converts DC power to AC power so that you can run typical household devices from a battery. A 100 watt version is very compact and inexpensive. I already had one, which I used for this project. Here is a similar version.
amzn.to/2FBjGDQ
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites

Опубликовано:

5 окт 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 81

@ronniephillips7502 3 года назад

Ben I wish you could do a new video step by step wiring with the disconnect. I am brand new at this and I need a step by step like you did in the original build..thanks

@rayarmes8562 3 месяца назад

8th

@t3angling575 2 года назад

Hi Ben. I built a box using several different vidoes from other builders. I too cut out a small template using 1/4" ply, definitely too thick for the rocker switches I use. I actually wired each load component with its own switch, just so I could use other ports e.g. SAE, or Banana Jacks, etc, independent from the main panel and main switch. Most other builds have switches, and other components all mounted on the outside of a waterproof or water resistent box, I cut my own panel template to keep everything nice and neat inside, and with less opportunity for water intrusion. 12v 12 ah battery. Then I decided to add solar. Now cannot seem to get it to work. So, I dismantled the entire wiring schematic and am starting all over. Adding solar was supposed to be easy, not. Great videos, and yes, when folks do the wiring on camera and go fast, that is a turnoff. Was for me. I am in the process of filming an entire build and will go slow through the wiring portion, as most reviews or comments are in regards to the wiring. You do not have to be an electrician to do this, but it is still new to some, fun for most, and a neat idea for camping, kayaking, etc. Thank you for the vids and the instructables, etc...

@Jlui83 6 лет назад

Sweet didn’t know you made this video. Good stuff. I actually have two switches. One that turns on the charge controller. Then another one turns on the ports. This will allow the charge controller switch to be turned on when charging and not have to turn the “load” ports on.

@totaleclipse2k 6 лет назад

That's what I did on mine, too. One switch allows charging and energizes two banana outputs. This also works as the "kill" switch. The other switch turns on the quad panel.

@jeffmcgovern5674 3 года назад

I put a second switch in in hopes to do the same but I can't seem to figure out the wiring. Are you able to assist me?

@sksupply 6 лет назад

On my first build I used a large 32HA battery which uses large bolts for positive and negative. I actually used an automotive disconnect on the negative side, which disconnects the entire system by turning a knob. Quick and easy. My second build I used an isolated switch on the outside of the box that turns the controller on and off because the batteries are smaller with blade terminal connectors. Love your videos on these. I used 90% of your info to build mine. Thanks for that.

@Brian-co2xh 5 лет назад

Thanks again... I really enjoyed the first video, until another viewer mentioned a switch between the battery and first component(solar controller).. couldn’t agree more on that comment... then I saw your modified, updated version.. thank you. I am now looking for a fusible disconnect switch(20 or 30A) that is more robust and yet small enough to fit in this limited space.. Again, thank you for a great video!

@tomray4139 Год назад

Purchasing a solar panel with built in controller will simplify the box design even more.

@totaleclipse2k 6 лет назад

Great follow up video, Ben!

@mtnboy40 5 лет назад

Ben Thank you for that great Video. I ordered your template board(so great of you to put that out there for us.) I agree with Sandra I'm totally with you on putting all the components together but when it comes to wiring it up with the wago connectors you sort of timed lapsed through it and lost me. Also I'm interested in the alternative disconnect switch wiring. Please, please, pretty please, could you do another wiring video step by step for electrical newbies like me. I don't want to blow myself up. Thank you. Rockin and Rolling in Southern California and want to get this box built for my earthquake preparedness. Rick

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

Don't worry, you won't blow yourself up. I also have written directions on Instructables. Sometimes it's easier to follow written directions than video ones: www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Solar-Power-Supply/ It's a bit hard to do a great video on the wiring as you would mostly just see lots of my hands blocking the view of where the wire connections are made. Probably best just with the listing of what goes where. Check out the Instructables link and see if that makes a little more sense for you.

@williamvan909 5 лет назад

like to see you do one of these start to end so i can do one the right way ...thanks new video start up .

@mckayprestwich 4 года назад

This may help www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Solar-Power-Supply/

@NinjaGrandma5088 5 лет назад

Any chance you will do an in depth video on this disconnect switch? I loved the first video but am having trouble figuring out the new wiring. I am 64 years old so visual details are better for me. Thanks for all your great videos!

@mckayprestwich 4 года назад

www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Solar-Power-Supply/ see bottom of page for wiring diagram.

@debohannan4315 3 года назад

If you use a plexiglass cover instead of wood you could add a small led light in one corner to let light up all the engraving letters .

@damianhemsworth6384 5 лет назад

great video, really great however I would like to add that using the switch panel as a master cut off could actually be a problem. If I were to use this configuration whilst camping with my family, you could guarantee my wife would switch it off at some point during the trip leaving the solar panel burning the controller out, I'd prefer to remove the fuse to isolate everything

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

I don't see how the solar panel would "burn the controller out". In my original video, I suggested simply pulling the main power connection or the fuse. Many people commented that that would be inconvenient or that the system REQUIRES some sort of disconnect switch. I shot this video just to show another way it could be done. My personal preference is just to disconnect the main wire before storage.

@Nicksperiments 4 года назад

BenjaminNelson the manufacture of the solar charge controller says it’ll damage the controller to have the solar panel connected with no battery. A double pole single throw switch should be used to disconnect both the battery and the solar panel

@toddherron8778 6 лет назад

No one else seems to have mentioned it, but there seems to be an issue with the mic.

@williammchugh4361 5 лет назад

Watched the videos and really like the designing, pretty cool. I'm building one with a slightly larger dry box with 2 X 12 AH batteries. I think it will be around 18 pounds. It should have room to expand it to 3 X 12 for a total of 36 ah. At that point it wouldn't be "portable" but would be a great box for vehicle Stealth Camping along with a 30-50 watt panel. I'm using one of those larger socket panels, the one with the 4 items plus like 6 buttons across the top. Is everyone making these as shown with the socket panel etc inside the box? I like the idea, but for stealth camping I like the idea of having it more like an appliance with easier access. Still assembling parts mostly from junk I have laying around.

@Franksey180 4 года назад

Nice project and update, but I'd really want to isolate that USB 5V socket as it is a drain on the system that you are forced to have when charging the battery. May not be ideal if using solar and the sun light is weak that day. Those USB sockets are a drain as there is energy loss convertng 12V to 5V, I've seen issues with them on camper vans where people hard wired them in with no disconnect.

@OverlandingFamliy 3 года назад

Thanks for the great video. Could you charge this system from a 12v cigarette lighter to the solar control while driving

@barrykelly2722 2 года назад

Ben. Wow. Informative with excellent and needed tips. Electronics is one of my many weak points. That said, I am looking at using a DC wall adapter as an alternative when solar is not easily useable. My plan is to use a SAE type connection for the solar input. Is it possible (without creating a Griswold electrical disaster) to splice / marry the SAE connection to the end of an appropriate DC wall adapter? Do you have advice on that? Lastly, based on the original setup - one of the best builds / designs on the Tube - what other options are there to prevent a ghost drain on the battery via charge controller? Another switch?

@Zbee167 9 месяцев назад

Nice and simple. You still selling these faceplates and spacers???

@BenjaminNelsonX 9 месяцев назад

I still sell the faceplates. 300mpg.org/shop/

@Zbee167 8 месяцев назад

@@BenjaminNelsonX Thanks

@billypirtle1443 2 года назад

One thing you have to remember is there are two sizes if USB ports standard and other is smaller Samsung has two different USB ports.

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

These are the typical USB A ports. You can find adapter cables from USB A to any other type of USB as needed for charging a phone or any other device.

@0556rick 2 года назад

Very good video. Question, how do you reduce the 12v to 5v for usb power?

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

It's built right in to both the controller and the secondary panel.

@dr2man 4 года назад

Great build, would you have created a diagram or schematic of the wiring?

@BenjaminNelsonX 4 года назад

There's a few diagrams on the write-up at Instructables. www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Solar-Power-Supply/

@douglaswindsor120 2 года назад

Is it actually a cigarette lighter plug with a solid steel barrel and a ceramic disc hold the positive conector

@david.howdidyousetitupszab9041 6 лет назад

could you put 2 of those batteries in the box. GREAT VID

@BenjaminNelsonX 6 лет назад

Yes, you could have two matching batteries wired up in parallel for double the capacity. It would simply take up the extra space which I just use as "accessory space" in the ammo can.

@tg7469 2 года назад

Great instructional videos! I've run into a little problem wiring in a separate illuminated toggle switch. I have the switch grounded and source connected properly. When I connect the load going back to the controller it shorts, blowing the inline fuse. Any thoughts??

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

As much as I like illuminated switches, there are so many ways to hook them up wrong! If you are getting a blown fuse, it likely means the switch is accidentally hooked up so that it's directly connecting the positive and negative of the battery together. Good thing there's a fuse in there, as it's exactly for situations like this that they are helpful - preventing melted wiring and the other bad things that can happen with a short! What I would do is to completely remove the switch, and hook it up just by it's self, separate from the Solar Ammo Can project. Make sure to correctly identify which terminals get the positive, negative, and switched load connections. Use a multimeter to CONFIRM that it's correct and check for open-circuit/closed-circuit continuity where you expect it to be. Another simple option would be to use a NON-illuminated switch, as that eliminates the variables of the extra connection.

@tg7469 2 года назад

@@BenjaminNelsonX. I was stumped with how you got your switch to work. I tried your suggested configuration along with alternative configurations. Appears my illuminated SPST switch internals can't handle the specific configuration. Going back to an SAE connection or simple on/off SPST switch. Thanks for the response.

@joepah51 5 лет назад

Thanks for the heads up on battery drains.. I always leave my battery charger connected even when it's turned off.. Now I just pull the quick disconnect.. Instead of manual switch, couldn't you just install a Low voltage disconnect relay, and that would limit the amount of battery discharge, no matter what is draining it?

@Patstuf 5 лет назад

I am also interested in using a cheap LVD, trouble I see is the wire size that goes from battery to load needs to be very small 16-18 guage to make the connection through the LVD? Not the 10 -12 guage I would like to use.

@domestic120 2 года назад

Great video, just trying this out myself but have a strobing effect (switch lights go on/off quickly) when solar is connected and the master switch is off but stops when you turn it on, scratching my head is not helping, anyone have any ideas for this old fella?

@huasteca_norte 3 года назад

Benjamin regards from Mexico, I want to incorporate 2 batteries 12v 15Ah, which solar panel is indicated? I am a beginner

@DeltaDockSticks 2 года назад

Hey Ben, thank you so much for the awesome solar box idea/tutorials. I mounted my solar charge controller on a thin piece of plastic then on top of my 12V SLA battery similar to your idea, Q: is there anything inside the solar charge controller that might cause damage to my 12V SLA battery?

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

That charge controller will work fine with an SLA battery.

@paulh6527 4 года назад

I know this is an older video, but still hope you will respond. Thanks for sharing this tutorial exactly what I need.. 1 question though.. Did it not concern you that the battery said do not charge in an airtight enclosure. I am thinking to use 2x np7-12L batteries in parallel, as cheap here in UK vs other options... But they also say on data sheet Dont charge in airtight enclosure as these sealed lead acid batteries emit gasses through thier vent valve... What is you thoughts on that? Thanks Paul

@BenjaminNelsonX Год назад

The battery isn't charged in an air-tight container. The lid needs to be open to connect the wires from the solar panel.

@SamuelBundrant 2 года назад

Yo Ben, I have put my solar fish canister together with this set up. But im having a hard time trying to find something to charging my battery. I haven't been able to find a solar panel or dc charger with banana jacks. And I believe you said you could charge the battery by using bare wires instead. I have a 15 volt dc charger, but with no positive and negative specific wires, but with one long wire instead. Would I have to clip the plug off the charger and then put the bare wire itself in the red banana jack port to charge the battery?

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

If you have a charge with a barrel connector on the end, yes, you can just cut it off and use connectors that support bare wire going straight to the battery. Make sure to observe proper polarity.

@SamuelBundrant 2 года назад

@@BenjaminNelsonX I'm sorry but I dint think we are on the same page, I mean how would I just use bare wires to charge the battery (using the banana jack ports)? Thank you for everything you have helped Me with so far though.

@RichardB50 3 года назад

Does the solar charge controller automatically shut ogg when battery is full? For example i need to charge it while iI am at work will it shut off on its own or will i have to watch it until its full charged?

@BenjaminNelsonX Год назад

It's automatic. That's really the point of it.

@tjmoore1972 4 года назад

Hi great videos. Is there any foldable solar power that would fit inside of the amo can?

@BenjaminNelsonX 4 года назад

I found one folding solar panel that would fit, but the other components would have to be moved around. The panel would go in vertical, so the battery would need to be turned 90 degrees to make room for it. It can be done, I just preferred the layout I went with.

@bradleyjohnson452 6 лет назад

Great video and thanks for the update. It hard to tell, but is there room in the ammo box for a 2nd battery?

@BenjaminNelsonX 6 лет назад

Yes, you could add a second battery of the same size and shape, and wire it in parallel to double your battery capacity. The downside is losing the "storage area" in the box to keep your accessories.

@bradleyjohnson452 6 лет назад

Thanks, I like the idea of a 2nd battery and then perhaps another small ammo can for the accessories. Other option would be a 2nd ammo can for 1-2 batteries only and connect your build to an extra double battery pack. Thanks again

@BenjaminNelsonX 6 лет назад

Lots of different ways to do it! Try it out and see what works best for you!

@dwayneschank5456 3 года назад

I understand the two studs for solar in but what are the 12v out studs for thanks

@BenjaminNelsonX 3 года назад

They are for whatever else you want. I don't know every possible 12V device that people would want to power with the Solar Ammo Can. By providing a dedicated output that can work with just bare wires, you can power literally anything you want.

@clintpiatt1026 2 года назад

Do u sell this kit if so how much

@jhill4874 5 лет назад

Any thought on using lithium-ion/iron-phosphate/polymer batteries?

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

Lithium batteries are great in that they have lots of power, but in a small and lightweight package. Unfortunately, they are still relatively expensive and are a little more complicated to charge and not over-discharge. This project was designed as a very simple one to get anyone into the basics of solar-charged battery systems.

@tiagon19 4 месяца назад

Is it a 4liter box? Or a 7,5Liter box?

@BenjaminNelsonX 4 месяца назад

7.5 liter.

@tiagon19 4 месяца назад

@@BenjaminNelsonX Thanksssssss

@jspies6769 5 лет назад

Can I us this to power a box fan or desk fan overnight

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

You could power a small 12V fan overnight. For anything else, do the math. Look at the label on the electric appliance you want to run and see how much current it draws. Divide the capacity of your battery (in AH, amp-hours) by how much current the device uses (in Amps) and you will know approximately how long it will run (in Hours.) This was only ever designed to be a small portable system, but you could easily hook up a much larger battery in place of the small one used in this project.

@davidpate2237 2 года назад

What gauge wire are you using

@BenjaminNelsonX 2 года назад

I used all 12 AWG wiring on this project. Frankly, I could have used 14 AWG for everything. Essentially, the entire project is rated for 20A, but on short runs of wire in the open air (instead of in a wall or inside conduit) slightly smaller gauge wire handles more current than it otherwise would. 14 AWG would just be a little more flexible, so easier to work with.

@jjustus07 5 лет назад

Dan, is thee a way I can get two of your wooden templates for my projects I am doing?

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

It's Ben.... but yes, you can get the wooden plates. Two of them would be $24, including shipping in the US. My e-commerce plug-in is acting up right now, but if you just send $24 to me through the big ol' DONATE button on my web page, include your FULL NAME, SHIPPING ADDRESS, and CONTACT INFORMATION, I will get those sent to you right away. 300mpg.org/donate/

@BenjaminNelsonX 5 лет назад

PS: e-commerce is back up and running!