12 volt outlet size

[Cat futrell]

I am shopping 12 volt outlets to install into our FC? I ran across an article that spoke of two different sizes (inside diameter). Before I purchase I want to make sure I am purchasing the right ones.

We want the outlet that is the same size as the one in the car. I did a forum search on 12 volt outlet size and got no results. Anybody have any information that will help me get the correct size?

[J Mac]

Unless your buying 'on line', bring the 'male end' to the store and see if it fits.

[Cat futrell]

I am buying on line.

[Darwin Maring]

I've never heard of different sizes. Go to WallyWorld and purchase the item and if it is wrong, just take it back.

[Brian B-P]

You might check out the Wikipedia Cigarette lighter receptacle page, which explains that there are two slightly different sizes (I assume you would want the slightly bigger of the two). There's also a somwhat common socket which is significantly smaller, and frequently associated with BMW, defined by the ISO 4165 standard... you presumably don't want that in a trailer here.

[Bob Miller]

As mentioned, there are two slightly different outlets. One is always called a "Cigarette Lighter Receptacle" the other "12 Volt Power Outlet". The former is also designed to hold the lighter in place while it is heating, as well as be more heat resistant. The latter will usually not do that. That said, the lighter receptacles are actually a lot harder to find, even on purpose.

Now to further confuse, there are several different sizes of mounting plates as well as the blind mounting type.

[Raz]

When I wanted sockets I went to the local auto parts store and bought the light/socket together for a couple bucks. Installed the sockets and recycled the lighters. I used a washer for mounting. Raz

[billhenry58]

I found some nice ones at Radio Shack for about 10 dollars. I haven't put them in yet but it is on the list. They have a round smaller profile design and comes with a cover. I think they are listed as 12 volt outlets and not cigarette lighter outlets.

[Jared J]

I just bought some 12v power outlets with rubber caps at the local auto parts store. I have no idea what size they are, but they work.

[Darwin Maring]

Walmart has some with spring loaded moisture resistant caps.

[Cat futrell]

Thanks to all for the good insights. I was thinking that 12 volt plugs would be the size of a cigaret lighter in a car Since all of the electronic adapters that we use fit in the car plug. But thought I may have missed something when I read that there are two different sizes.

Cat