Date:         Sat, 27 Feb 2010 12:36:47 -0900
Reply-To:     colorworks@GCI.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Subject:      6 V power supply to activate 12 V circuit-- possible?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

A question for the electrical gurus out there:

I have a Coleman hot water on demand that uses a 6 V battery to operate, and would like to set things up so that when I activate the Coleman, it starts the westy's 12 volt pump. My eventual goal is to have hot water outside the van using the on board water tank and pump. I could convert 12 V to 6 V to power the Coleman, but don't think it would have enough power to operate a pump with adequate pressure for longer distance, and this would mean two pumps, two lines, etc. So, trying to make the 6 V circuit power a 12 V circuit. Is this possible? Some type of switching relay perhaps?

I have the necessary connectors, etc. It's a project I've been thinking about since last year and would like to make it happen before camping season this spring. Since I no longer use the city water connection, I'm thinking of putting the connectors in behind that utility box or perhaps something at the rear of the van. Since I have an extend a stay on my propane tank, something on the side of the van might be nice to be able to use the existing propane source as  well. I have hooked up barbecue grills and such with the extend a stay, and it works pretty nicely.

When I finish this project I will post the pictures to a website for everyone else to look at. I'm sure others would be interested in such a setup.

Thanks,

Troy