Van build / Updated Oct 12, 2026
Adding a shore power inlet to the Sprinter
Plug the van in at a campsite without running a cord through the door. Parts, tools, and what we’d do differently.
Quick take
A weatherproof inlet on the side of the van is one of the most useful small upgrades we’ve made. It’s a half-day job if you’re careful with the hole and the sealing.
Good for
- Sprinter and Transit owners who stay at hookup sites
- Anyone tired of a cord jammed in the door seal
Skip it if
- Anyone not comfortable with electrical work. Have an electrician wire the inside.
Why we did it
Running an extension cord through a door or window lets in water and bugs, and the cord gets pinched. A proper inlet keeps the van sealed and the connection protected.
Picking the spot
We measured inside and out before drilling: clear of ribs, wiring and the sliding door track, and close to where the electrical system lives.
Install
Mark, drill a pilot, cut the hole, then file and paint the bare metal so it can’t rust. The inlet is bedded in sealant and screwed down, then the inside wiring goes to the system’s inlet protection.
This is the part where an electrician earns their money. Mains power in a vehicle isn’t a guess-and-check job.
What we’d change
Take more time on the paint around the cut. It’s the only part of the job that can come back to bite you later.
Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Free review products are disclosed and never guarantee a good review.