I need some suggestions on installing a power outlet in cargo area. I did it to my 90 but that one already had a hot wire from the tow package. Any suggestions as to what size wire I should run and where can I hook it up to run it all the way back there(the 90 had plenty of options in the fuse block but not this one). Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

What kind of outlet? Cigarette style? Or an inverter?

 

Cigarette style. Guess I forgot that lil detail

 

What size wire you use is dependent on two things. The total length of the wire, and the amount of amps you want to pull through it.

Assuming you'll have a power tap somewhere up under the dash or under the hood (for distance length estimates), here are some general figures:

15 amps @ 6-10 feet =14 gauge wire
15 amps @ 12-16 feet = 12 gauge wire
20 amps @ 6-10 feet = 12 gauge wire
20 amps @ 12-16 feet = 10 gauge wire
25 amps @ 6-10 feet = 10 gauge wire
25 amps @ 12-16 feet = 8 gauge wire

Other helpful info for determining power needs of certain items you may plug into the outlet:

Wattage / Voltage = Amperage
EX: An item that requires 250 watts will pull 20.83 amps through the circuit.
You can also use all of the info and math above to determine wattage and/or amperage draw on circuits and determine wire sizing. This will hold true for lights, compressors, inverters, etc. For other lengths, there are charts all over the internet for determining wire size based upon length and amperage draw.

Be sure to have a fuse that is aligned with your expected amperage limit.
In my experience, most cigarette-style aftermarket power outlets will handle 20-25 amps but aren't rated for much more. Of course, there may be other rated higher.

 

Thank you for your input, I will try to tackle this on the weekend. I have one in my 90 XJ and it sure comes in handy.