LVM Inflator power source

[steverl]

I have an LVM inflator for the toys on my boat. However, it is not very convenient to attach it to the boats batteries, and I understand that it is not advisable to try to attach it via the lighter socket. I am therefore looking for a portable power source which I could use. Any ideas?

 

[wiggy]

how about 12v motorbike of similar batttery

 

[steverl]

I was looking for a battery and re-charger setup. I have seen these advertised, but do not know if they would be able to take the draw of the LVM.

 

[ditchcrawler]

I have used my LVM to blow up my dinghy from a portable battery pack(the sort to start cars,mine is a Clarke Jump Start) without any problem.

 

[steverl]

Thank you - that is what I was looking for. Do you know the model number that you use?

 

[chuzzlewit]

I use a 12V TUV starting aid Type BFP-D. BK.2002

 

[DickB]

I have used a 'lighter' socket (16amps) for my LVM without any problem for the past 5 years. I know they specify 25amps but I look a punt on this and so far no problems... I ran some heavy cable up to the binicle from a 25amp trip. All works fine...

 

[ditchcrawler]

The 12v jumpstart I use is a Clarke 900.Most of these types of battery packs use a 17amp battery,as does my lawnmower.I replaced the battery in the jumpstart last year & it was £25.

 

[wooslehunter]

It's been suggested in the past that teh small 12v gelcells used in alarm systems would be OK. This is not the case as they can't source the current. Motorcycle batteries are smaller & lighter than the portable starter packages but won't last as long & you'll have to charge via a car charger. I just use the crock clips to connect to the boat battery directly or to the car battery at the other end. They're just about long enough.

 

[tross]

Didn't someone do this as a project in PBO a while back?

 

[Gin]

I was put off buying one of these as others on here said that rather taking the advertised 3-4 minutes to inflate a 2.7 metre dinghy it took much, much longer.

What is your experience?

 

[wiggy]

My experience is that they fantastic and increadibly quick

 

[Gin]

Thank you

 

[laserman3]

They are very good. I have fitted a 32 amp waterproof socket in the cotpit wired to the main electrical distribution panel with 32amp switche and appropriate cabling. I cut off the horrible crock clips put on a 32 amp plug and it works just fantastick. The shore battery I use is an engine battery in a modified battery box with the same socket. This also works a treat.

Just make sure you remember where you put the nozzle adaptors so you can locate them!

 

[Gin]

useful info.-thanks!

 

[jerryat]

Totally agree with Wiggy, extremely fast in my experience and pumps up either of our inflatables within a couple of minutes and one's an Avon Redcrest, so not that small.

Great bit of kit and well worth the big pile of pennies!

 

[pappaecho]

I have a large 6 man dinghy, and it inflates in 3-4 minutes as advertised. Initially I used a so called marine cigar lighter socket which almost melted... and so ...
I sourced gold plated terminals from Maplin, which take banana plugs down the centre, or have plastic unscrewable knobs which allows for spade connectors, or at worst bare wires.
The pump is connected by banana plugs, works perfectly and does not get hot. I reckon it draws about 12 amps

 

[Largslout]

Yep, have same problem and I am going to use the RAC power pack from Argos. Charge in Marina/home should be good for LVM or other emergency use. 50 odd quid I think. Hope this helps.

 

[Largslout]

The RAC power pack at Argos is catalogue no 750/0084.

 

[steverl]

Thanks to all. I have now probably gone ott and ordered a heavy duty model - I can see other uses including engine starting the boat and car.