Stereo Master Power Switch

[Powder Hounds]

Hello,

Finally got around to adding a master power switch for our Jenson stereo. We mostly rely on our 120 watt solar panel to charge our x2 Trojan 6 volt batteries. Our power usage is about 36 amp hours per day. I remember coming across a discussion about the Jensen's power consumption in standby at 5 amp hours in a 24 hour period. We estimated that on average that appliance uses about 18 percent of our battery power. We don't require present radio stations or the clock running for that loss of amps.

So for less than $20.00 we installed a toggle switch next to the stereo. The power wire from the stereo was 18 gauge and the trailer wire was 14 gauge. Cut out that factory blue clamp connector and used  the matching butt type crimp connector to splice in some more wire to reach the new switch. Had to do the same on the main trailer power wire as well. Cut out the hole for the switch, added the two female crimp connectors and installed. Took less than 30 minutes, very simple little project.

Over the past few days our batteries are receiving a full charge with less amp hours. The new solar panel mount is really getting the most for uss. I though about adding another panel for some more amps but maximizing what we have really helps. That basic switch was worth it. I hope my figures are in line with our forum electrical pros, my electrical skills are limited, but you have to try.

Happy camping!

[FastEddieB]

Nice mod.

We have a simpler stereo in our 2014 21BHS - I forget the brand - but our workaround is just to pop off the faceplate, which seems to kill it.

[Merlin]

Hello,

Finally got around to adding a master power switch for our Jenson stereo. We mostly rely on our 120 watt solar panel to charge our x2 Trojan 6 volt batteries. Our power usage is about 36 amp hours per day. I remember coming across a discussion about the Jensen's power consumption in standby at 5 amp hours in a 24 hour period. We estimated that on average that appliance uses about 18 percent of our battery power. We don't require present radio stations or the clock running for that loss of amps.

So for less than $20.00 we installed a toggle switch next to the stereo. The power wire from the stereo was 18 gauge and the trailer wire was 14 gauge. Cut out that factory blue clamp connector and used  the matching butt type crimp connector to splice in some more wire to reach the new switch. Had to do the same on the main trailer power wire as well. Cut out the hole for the switch, added the two female crimp connectors and installed. Took less than 30 minutes, very simple little project.

Over the past few days our batteries are receiving a full charge with less amp hours. The new solar panel mount is really getting the most for uss. I though about adding another panel for some more amps but maximizing what we have really helps. That basic switch was worth it. I hope my figures are in line with our forum electrical pros, my electrical skills are limited, but you have to try.

Happy camping!

That's awesome. I'll definitely do that with mine too because we have several campsites reserved for this summer where we'll be off the grid. This forum sure causes me a lot of work. 

You are also following a primary rule of solar power; reduce the demand!

You probably have it posted somewhere else, but what solar panel are you using and is it mounted or portable?

[Powder Hounds]

We are using a Zamp 120 watt portable panel. We have the ability to attach it to our A frame near the hitch or the rear bumper. I've attached a couple of pictures to make it easy to look at the setup.

[Gary M]

We are using a Zamp 120 watt portable panel. We have the ability to attach it to our A frame near the hitch or the rear bumper. I've attached a couple of pictures to make it easy to look at the setup.

Where did you u find this mount? It doesn't look like any of the ones that come with the Zamp kits. I like it though