My FF power supply

After thinking about some of the options out there, I opted to build a "new school" power supply inspired by the article on this site.  My goal was to build a p.s. that could fit in the inside space between the footwells.  I found a Carlon pvc enclosure rated for outdoor use, it's typically used for electrical junctions. This enclosure works out great because of the gasket-ed lid and small size.  It's about 5" by 5"(PIC 1).  I was able to fit an 8 AA holder, fuse, and a on/off switch inside after removing some ribs with a dremel.  The switch is really just a gimmick to satisfy the electronics geek in me, but I thought it might be cool to be able to shut off the power at the source and not worry about any connectors during cleaning or an extended camping trip(PIC 2).  The whole works attaches to the FF supplied power cable via automotive cables typically used for trailers.  I waterproofed the cable penetrations by using a Skintop connector.  This is also how I brought the cable out of the kayak to the FF (PICS 3&4).  The ps gets attached to the kayak with two strips of heavy duty velcro.  (PIC 5)  I was going to go with 10AAs, but 8 hold up the FF just fine, maybe if I get a GPS then there will be more work to do.  I also might have to find new mounting locations for the PS and xducr for below deck pole storage during ocean outings.  Sorry for the pic quality.... 

Great job on the install, looks clean!  Hope mine comes out that well.

As for the article regarding the "new school power supply," where did you find it?  I have been searching for the elusive piece for almost a month.  I have found old links from others that just lead me to the homepage, but I have not been able to find it there.  I read it awhile back but I think that was before the "big switch."  Wondering if it didn't make the transfer.

Thanks,

Michael

As for the article regarding the "new school power supply," where did you find it?  I have been searching for the elusive piece for almost a month.  I have found old links from others that just lead me to the homepage, but I have not been able to find it there.  I read it awhile back but I think that was before the "big switch."  Wondering if it didn't make the transfer.

I get the homepage, too. I've been having trouble with my West Marine 12V spotlight battery--don't know if it's the spotlight or the power, but I wanted to review this article for other options.

Janice aka "Big J"

Xsquid nice job on the battery box, looks like you but some thought in to that. Hear is what I ended up with, I got the water proof bag at REI for $8.00 it’s a Pass Port bag, the batteries fit nicely with a little room to spare. Its been working real good for me, easy in and out. With the eight AA I can get four good trips before recharging.

Pat R

I should have that article back online Sunday.

Thats a nice and simple set-up Pat.  Pretty much accomplishes everything I was looking for.  Some of my ideas start out that way and then tend to mushroom into something else.  Just wait until I post the pics of my kayak mounted espresso maker....        

Very sweet, Pat R! Your setup is EXACTLY what I want. I've been using a similar setup with a West Marine 12V spotlight battery that doesn't seem to hold a charge (what's up with that?) in a small drybag. I much prefer your even smaller see-through version, and the pad-eye attachment is perfect! Do you recharge the AAs in between trips or just every 4 days on the water? take them out of the boat in "dry dock"? Hints are most welcome--I'll wait to hear more before I run down to my local Frys or Radio Shack!

Janice aka "Big J"

J use 10 AAs instead of 8 and you will increase you run time especially with rechargables. I don't think you can get 12volts from 8RCs.

I have my 10AA battery pack in a lemonade pitcher and that inside a dry bag. The extra length of cords fit nicely inside and the size of the pitcher wedges just right between the side of the yak and the post for the scupper hole inside.
I am always looking for ideas to save weight and space.
I do like the carabiner set up inside which you use to keep it secure. I think I will do the same.
Thanks for the idea.

I don't think you can get 12volts from 8RCs.

Hey, M, I don't think so either based on what I read at online battery shops, and my FF requires 12V. Also, it looks like you have Velcro on your Pelican box--where do you secure the powerpack? I really like Pat R's pad eye, and someone else mentioned gooping the box to the boat for less movement. Thoughts?

Janice aka "Big J"

I velcro to scupper and wedge a small piece of foam to keep it from moving or not no big diff.

J use 10 AAs instead of 8 and you will increase you run time especially with rechargables. I don't think you can get 12volts from 8RCs.

Hey Mickfish, where do you get those 10 AA battery packs?  Radio Shack/Frys, or online?  I have everything I need to install my Matrix 17 short of the power setup...I was debating whether to go with AA's or a larger gel cell battery & haven't been able to make up my mind.

J use 10 AAs instead of 8 and you will increase you run time especially with rechargables. I don't think you can get 12volts from 8RCs.

Hey Mickfish, where do you get those 10 AA battery packs?  Radio Shack/Frys, or online?  I have everything I need to install my Matrix 17 short of the power setup...I was debating whether to go with AA's or a larger gel cell battery & haven't been able to make up my mind.

Here's where I got mine: http://www.thomas-distributing.com/battery-holders.htm

Here's where I got mine: http://www.thomas-distributing.com/battery-holders.htm

I've been all over the East Bay today looking for a 10 AA holder, for naught. Thanks for the link--I had looked at their website before but wanted instant gratification. Guess I'm back to the internet and practicing patience! Anything else I need to order to connect the powerpack? Does the battery pack use a snap lead or does it need to be hardwired?

Janice aka "Big J"

Big J I test the batteries every time, if its less then ten volts I will recharge, I do take them out of the yak after each trip. The 8 AA will give you about 11.3 volts on a full charge, I have a Eagle 245DS the input power is 10 to 17 volts, I do not have any problems with 8 AA like I said before I can get a good four trips out of one charge. But if you need the 10 AA it to will fit in that small dry bag. I tryed to keep it simple and the cost down, Good luck on your power search  .

Pat R