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Old 12-07-2022, 09:01 AM   #1
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Austin , Texas
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Wiring and drilling question

Hi All!


So I am installing a TPMS repeater and have decided to mount it on the tongue A-Frame. I am installing a power switch and would like to 3D print a mount/plug that fits into the square tubing between the Airstream and the battery box.


I would like to drill a small access hole into that square tubing/battery box so the cabling will be easier to route from the button-switch through the tubing and into the battery box.



Any issues with this idea? I'm thinking 7mm diameter should do the trick. I am assuming this square tube is there to provide a mounting surface for the battery box and serves no other structural purpose?
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Old 12-07-2022, 06:22 PM   #2
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Seems that the repeater is very close to battery box. Why not just run it through one of the existing holes in the battery box?
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Old 12-07-2022, 09:23 PM   #3
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I am running the repeater wires through a hole in the battery box on the other side, but wanted to mount the button switch on the outside as shown in the pic...running its wires into the battery box to meet up with wiring for the repeater.

I think I have a mount design that extends the button switch out enough so I can just drop the wires straight down and then into the hole on the bottom of the battery box. This will prevent any drilling. Printing it now.
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Old 12-07-2022, 10:13 PM   #4
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I would guess the square tube has nothing inside it, but I have never inspected it closely.

My repeater is in the back window of my SUV, and I'm going to be moving it. I would appreciate seeing pictures of where you mount yours.
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Old 12-08-2022, 08:22 AM   #5
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Ok. Here are the prototype pics of the switch mount. I will post pics of the completed project for you so you can see how I mounted the repeater.
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Old 12-09-2022, 06:09 AM   #6
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Where did you source the switch?
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Old 12-09-2022, 07:57 AM   #7
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Here is the final install. I lengthened the square tubing portion of the mount so it had more bite. Just need a dab of silicone to secure it.


For the sensor mount, I used 24lb 3M double sided tape and the also added zip tie holes for extra security. The sensor can be removed via the 3mm screws with a custom spot for the nuts as shown.



The switch was sourced on Amazon.
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Old 12-09-2022, 08:10 AM   #8
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Is the switch weather resistant?
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Old 12-09-2022, 08:25 AM   #9
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According to the listing:


Product Features: The compact appearance makes more space for your car, and it is easy to install and easy to use. It is worth mentioning that this product has IP65 waterproof protection, which extends the service life to a greater extent.
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Old 12-09-2022, 08:44 AM   #10
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As to waterproofing...guess I will find out when I power wash it in the coming weeks?
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Old 12-09-2022, 02:28 PM   #11
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Nice looking set up.

Can you post a link to the switch?
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Old 12-09-2022, 02:32 PM   #12
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Do not buy this one from Trailersphere. The zipper failed after fewer than 30 zips.
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Old 12-09-2022, 02:54 PM   #13
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Looks like this one.
https://www.amazon.com/Latching-SASQ...97&sr=8-4&th=1
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Old 12-09-2022, 05:24 PM   #14
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Yes...this is the one:


https://www.amazon.com/Latching-SASQ...97&sr=8-4&th=1
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Old 12-09-2022, 05:46 PM   #15
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Nice job!

Looks great John. Fun project to 3D print a practical switch mount.

I mounted my TPMS repeater to the side of the battery box and connected the wires to the 7-Pin’s running lights wire so it’s “on” when I connect the trailer to the truck.
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Old 12-09-2022, 08:40 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jeffmc306 View Post
Looks great John. Fun project to 3D print a practical switch mount.

I mounted my TPMS repeater to the side of the battery box and connected the wires to the 7-Pin’s running lights wire so it’s “on” when I connect the trailer to the truck.
This is what I do too. Wired to the running lights.
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Old 12-09-2022, 10:52 PM   #17
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I located my TPMS repeater under the jack head hood. Wanted to get the transmitter a bit elevated. Ran the wires up the jack. Drilled a hole in the side of the hood for the waterproof push button switch. Easy to see during hitching.

I do regret not wiring the repeater into the running lights. When I have to replace the jack, going to go in that direction.
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Old 12-10-2022, 07:10 PM   #18
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Inspired by this thread and dissatisfied with the performance of the repeater, today I printed a device that clamps the repeater onto the brace inside the propane cover. The repeater's antenna extends into the crown formed by the plastic lid of the propane cover. Since it is secured by wing nits, I can disconnect the repeater from the propane cover when I need to refill the propane tanks.
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Old 12-11-2022, 08:28 AM   #19
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Fungus, would love to see a pic of your clamp.

I had a curious thought. What about mounting the repeater on the tow vehicle instead?
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Old 12-11-2022, 02:00 PM   #20
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The clamp...


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Hardware. Two of each. All #10.
  • 1.25" machine screw. A bolt would be easier to install.
  • Flat washer
  • Split lock washer
  • Hex nut
  • Wing nut

Washers and hex nuts hold the clamp in place. The wing nut holds the repeater against the hex nut.

The wing nut's wings don't quite clear the repeater. Next trip to the hardware store I'll see it a #8 will do the trick.
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