Help with 12v wiring

[Alcoa Roller]

OK I am an idiot when it comes to 12v and need some help.

I currently have a 4 terminal DC switch panel connected to the battery. It appears one side is hot the other is ground. The terminals just have one spade lug position per switch of which there are 4. Each terminal is currently connected to various devices in the trailer.

I am in the process of installing a new refrigerator and need to get 12v to it.

Question? Can I make a "Y" connector off of one of the terminals on the 4 position switch panel effectively creating a 5th hot wire to go to the fridge? By the way I would use the terminal that is currently feeding the sparker for the cook top?

Question 2 Since the switch panel is grounded, do I need to worry about the ground terminal on the refrigerator?

Thanks in advance for your replies.

[SteveH]

Your existing, or old refrigerator should have a 12VDC line to it now, unless it was removed. I would use that line. Also, the 12VDC line to the refrigerator should not be switched, but should be fused at the amperage the refrigerator mfg. suggests. It will also need a ground. It is bad practice to "Y" off of an existing circuit because it may become overloaded.

[Thalweg]

Originally Posted by SteveH

Your existing, or old refrigerator should have a 12VDC line to it now, unless it was removed. I would use that line. Also, the 12VDC line to the refrigerator should not be switched, but should be fused at the amperage the refrigerator mfg. suggests. It will also need a ground. It is bad practice to "Y" off of an existing circuit because it may become overloaded.

A 1963 Overlander probably originally had a propane only refrigerator. Therefore, it may not have an existing 12 volt line. My 1962 didn't.

[Alcoa Roller]

Thanks for replys fellas. No there was no 12v there. This is a 63 and I have been living with the dorm fridge for past 1.5 years while full timing. I got a Norcold n841 that I am installing in its place. The freezer and extra space will be a much needed improvement.

There is a gas line capped off in pantry now so no brob there but no 12volt.

I went ahead and hooked up with y connector off stove spark terminal. Works fine. Since there is only an instantanious load when I light the cooktop I think it will b ok to share the same terminal with the fridge.

Oh, I did put a fuse in line as well.

At least no fires at the moment.

[NavyCorpsman]

After you make the connection to your satisfaction, check the voltage while the line is under load. Merry Christmas!