How to Power an Electric Car Inflator Without a Cigarette Lighter306

## Converting a Car Cigarette Lighter Inflator to Electric

Car cigarette lighter inflators are a convenient way to inflate tires, but they can be limiting if you don't have a cigarette lighter in your car. Fortunately, it is possible to convert a car cigarette lighter inflator to electric power, allowing you to use it in any vehicle with a 12-volt power source.

Materials Required:
1. Car cigarette lighter inflator
2. 12-volt power adapter (with bare wire leads)
3. Wire strippers
4. Electrical tape
5. Screwdriver (optional)

Safety Precautions:
Before you begin, ensure that the inflator is turned off and unplugged. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris.

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Open the Cigarette Lighter Plug: Using a screwdriver, unscrew the cap covering the cigarette lighter plug on the inflator.
2. Remove the Cigarette Lighter Element: Pull out the cigarette lighter element from the plug. Note the positive and negative terminal markings on the element.
3. Prepare the Power Adapter: Strip approximately 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the power adapter leads.
4. Connect the Leads: Twist the exposed copper wire from the positive lead of the power adapter around the positive terminal on the cigarette lighter element. Do the same for the negative lead and the negative terminal.
5. Wrap with Electrical Tape: Securely wrap the connections with electrical tape. This will prevent any shorts or loose connections.
6. Reassemble the Plug: Insert the modified cigarette lighter element back into the plug and screw on the cap.
7. Connect to Power Source: Plug the power adapter into a 12-volt power outlet in your car.

Testing the Conversion:
1. Turn on the inflator and check if it is working properly. It should start inflating immediately.
2. Monitor the inflator during use to ensure it is not overheating. If it does, stop using it and allow it to cool down.

Advantages of Electric Conversion:
* Versatility: Can be used in any vehicle with a 12-volt power outlet, regardless of whether it has a cigarette lighter.
* Convenience: No need to find a cigarette lighter to power the inflator.
* Safer: Eliminates the potential for electrical shorts or fires caused by faulty cigarette lighter plugs.

Conclusion:
Converting a car cigarette lighter inflator to electric power is a simple and inexpensive DIY project. It allows you to use your inflator in any vehicle, providing you with the convenience and peace of mind of having a reliable tire inflation solution.