Cigarette Lighter as a power source - 65 T-Bird

[Randy Simmons]

Hello - I'm in processes of updating my 65 T-Bird to be a "points car", so all work being done is geared to being original equipment or NOS parts as needed.

I presently have a working cigarette lighter on this vehicle, but it doesn't work as a power source for phone chargers etc. Does anyone know of a reason why it doesn't work as a power source?

[65BLUBIRD]

I've tried mine as a power source to plug an Ipod into and it works for about a minute, then shuts down. I am guessing it is something in the electric circuitry that does not want that much power as a constant on that circuit. Haven't really tracked the whole thing down. Would be interested if you get a fix on this.

[redbird1]

My guess would be to change out the fuse to a larger one for that circuit.
Bob.

[65BLUBIRD]

The fuse was not blowing, the cigarette lighter outlet was just acting as a cigarette lighter outlet. It works long enough to get the lighter hot, then stops. If I plug in the cigarette lighter, it works as it should.

[redbird1]

My only other suggestion would be to disconnect the wire from the lighter, and run a new one that is connected to a wire that is "hot" when the ignition is on.

Bob.

[rzcrisis]

Hello

I use a 120v inverter off of my cigarette lighter in my 64 Tbird to power stealth stereo speakers and charge my iPod for music in the car. Never had a problem so far. Great sound and charging works great. Not sure why yours is cutting out except it may be a bad connection at the adapter that inserts into the lighter socket?

[Randy Simmons]

Thanks Guys,

I like the path of least resistance - I'll try the 120V inverter.

I'll let you know how it turns out.

[Samandothers]

Was that intended as a play on words 'path of least resistance'?

Is it a possible issue with the lighter not having a good ground and vibration causes to open circuit? If power is dropping out from the lighter then using it to power an inverter may not help.