120 volt inverter options

So in the current reality, I decided to purchase a couple of lithium ion power stations to supplement my 2 gas generators. They are Pecron s1500 units & come with 400 w charging bricks….awesome by the way. They can run every appliance in my house besides central a.c./heat.

I do a good amount of camping & figured these units would be perfect for powering my lanterns, flashlights etc. particularly with their small profile & weighing only 26 lbs.

12 volt charging is SLOW so I decided to try out the 400w 120 volt outlet in the 4Runner thinking the 400w charging bricks wouldn’t overload it….WRONG !

After diligent research, I came to the conclusion that the 120 inverter in the truck is only good to 100w continuous, 400 SURGE.
It powered the Pecron but at reduced (~250w vs 400w) and the charging brick was heating up rapidly & constantly flashing as opposed to a solid red LED light indicating “charging” status. This was with the vehicle running & in park of course with drivers 120v console switch on. I don’t want to tote a gas generator while camping to charge the power station.

Certainly not a Greek Tragedy but a bit disappointing….

Looks like I need to install an aftermarket inverter with a bit more umph. I would love to hear any suggestions/experiences from the board on how I should proceed. Thanks in advance…

 

I would charge it with solar panels, it's slow but energy is free and you don't run your engine on idle for hours. Or you can buy a second power station - 1500Wh should be plenty for charging lanterns, flashlights and phones for a couple of weeks. And it might pay itself off since you won't use gas to charge it. Personally I'm afraid to modify electronics in 4Runner because I'm going to places where tow truck likely won't come.