If you really want to use the capacity of that inverter you need more
battery and 4 gauge wire minimum for a short distance. #2 is preferred. If
you plan to use that much power while the engine is running the entire
current path from the alternator to the battery/inverter also has to take
that current load. Plan on 100 amps plus. If the inverter has a higher surge
capacity you need to consider that. You need to be careful using these
inverters charging batteries in small devices like laptops, cell phones,
iPods, etc. It is tough to explain but the "modified" sine wave these put
out are not easily filter by small power supplies like those used by those
type devices. The small batteries being charged see all that ripple and will
just heat up and take power. All that small stuff should be charged with
appropriate 12 volt adapters. As for the indicator light that depends on how
you wire it.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Alex Madison
Sent: Saturday, February 06, 2010 6:41 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Battery to Inverter

I am getting ready to install a Xantrex 1000W inverter, Walmart type 41 Aux
battery and a gowesty auxillary battery wiring kit into my 1989 Westfalia.

I have some questions regarding what size gauge wires from my battery to
inverter and if I need a fuse/ breaker. Going to install inverter on cabinet
wall behind drivers seat and batt in aux batt compartment under drivers
seat.  Tried to look up topic here and samba but became very confused.
Anything else I need ?  Please try to keep it a little simple.
 Also with the gowesty kit will my battery lights on the stove be showing me
my aux or starting batt power.
 Wanting to power a light, laptop cell phone.  would be great to have the
capability to power power tools/shop vac but not crucial.

Cheers
 Alex
   1989 westfalia