Howdy,
What's the easiest, safest wire to tap into to get 12v only when key is on (truck is running)? It doesn't really matter if power is in engine compartment or in cab (interior). Thanks,

Buddy

In the kick panel by the driver's feet, there should be a number of fuses like the dome light, or similar. I forget which two I have tapped, but one is the dome light and the other may be wipers or some such.

Back of the cigarette lighter is another source of switched 12V power (on in ACC mode as well).

The cigarette lighter is constant power. It's important to find one quick. Would the ignition switch be a good power source? Thanks,

Buddy

Your radio has an ignition sensitive wire as well. One is constant hot (for the channel memory) and then a switched power. However, I wouldn't pull any big amps off this circuit.

Stock setup on my '85 was that the lighter only came on in ACC and above, it is dead when the key is turned off. I have now modified it to be constant power.

As I mentioned before, all trucks from 84 through 88 and prolly later came equipped for the factory clock wiring. That doesnt mean the clock came with the truck...but the wiring is still there! Again...its a 4 wire plug that has a constant power, keyed 12v, illumination and....guessing a ground. Did you even look for the wires? I wouldnt lie to you...hurts my fingers to frickin much to type this for it to be any fun. I pulled 12v keyed and illumination from this source for my tach long before acquiring the damn clock. Do you not have a way of checking for 12V keyed? If ya want I can go out and tear my dash apart and show you where the wiring is...hell the 87' 4Runner is already half apart...would only take about an hour to get at the rest...
~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />

Esquire, You sound a little P-Oed sorry, that's kinda my fault. Yes, I did take apart my dash. I took out the radio and the cover for the A/C and I did not see any spare connectors. I found only a spare 7 wire connector under the radio. I need to get it done tonight so I can drive it tomarrow. I now have the bottom of the steering column cover off. Sorry bout that Esquire, you definatly know your stuff.

BTW: I would think the clock is constant, is it?
Thanks,

Buddy

If you have your email address in your profile I 'll email you the pics of the plug. Clock has a constant for memory only, and 12V keyed for display. Wires are a red, green, black w/ White and white w/ black. Until I get the right photo editor on this brand new POS computer...I cant size them right for posting. Sorry...and no not pissed...If I was pissed I wouldnt try helping.
~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />

vahunter@cox.net

Thanks Esquire,
Buddy