Choosing an inverter

[Jeff213]

I am planning to setup my explorer with a 2nd battery, and I also want a 2500 or 3000 watt continuous output inverter so I can run a small arc welder and compressor while on the trail. I am overwhelmed when searching for inverters so I figured I would ask here to see if any of you have inverters in this power range that you are happy with? I know that I am going to have to spend some cash on this.

 

[shucker1]

APC or Trip-Lite hands down.

I don't think APC make anything that big though.

3000 Watts is a lot of meat and you are going to need some serious wire!

 

[Jeff213]

APC or Trip-Lite hands down.

I don't think APC make anything that big though.

3000 Watts is a lot of meat and you are going to need some serious wire!

I am an electrician by trade, so I think I can handle it I also think 2500 continuous output would be plenty, I just want to be able to run 1 20 amp circuit.

 

[shucker1]

Same thing here. You are going to need to upgrade your alternator or risk burning the stock unit up.

Trip-Lite 3000W draws 289 Amps @ 12VDC full load.

 

[Jeff213]

my plan is to wire it to draw from the dual battery system in parallel so it doesn't take too much from the alternator. I won't be able to use the inverter at full capacity for long periods of time, but I will be able to get enough juice from both of the batteries hooked up in parallel + the alternator to run it at full capacity long enough to make some decent sized welds on a 90 amp inverter welder. The duty cycle on my little welder is only 20% anyway at maximum current.


I am planning to upgrade the alternator though, I am just throwing this project idea out because it is the next big upgrade I want to do now that I have done the 4406 swap.

 

[shucker1]

Cool.

Just don't want to see you have an accidental "Trail Side Weenie Roast"

 

[VR4]

You'll need to isolate the alt from the batteries when loaded or it'll go to full output as soon as you load it