At 03:54 PM 7/2/2003, Bob Stevens wrote:
>Aha, so my stupid is now showing. So, that's why my electric, 12V air
>compressor plug won't stay in the lighter socket unless I hold it in. Thanks
>for the info .... now, to install the magic "Silver Socket".

Nope -- that's VW's genius showing.  They use two diameters of lighter plug
-- dunno if the smaller one matches US-type but the Vanagon one is
definitely larger.  Of course whoever developed that socket hadn't the
slightest intention of anyone ever using it to transmit power and no doubt
he's buried in a secret grave at a crossroads with a stake through his heart.

The silver socket (from the prominent aluminum ring  that shows on the
panel) is much smaller diameter and is actually meant for the
purpose.  It's used on BMW motorcycles and John Deere tractors for stuff
like heated vests and such, and plugs are available from them -- presumably
the socket as well.  No idea what current it's rated for.

david

--
David Beierl - Providence RI USA -- http://pws.prserv.net/synergy/Vanagon/
'84 Westy "Dutiful Passage"
'85 GL "Poor Relation"