JohnParks

Anyone have advice on how to make the power outlets hot all the time?

salimshah

Cleanest and least intrusive is to run a dedicated line [+ fuse] to the battery. Obvious draw back is that if you forget to disconnect the load, your battery may drain out.

The other problem is the spike you get when you start the car. So put a relay to disconnect the circuit when the key is moved to start.

Salim

tawm

Hi Salim:
I'd eventually like to run a power line from the battery into the cabin to power an amateur radio transceiver.
1) Have you any advice on WHERE the best spot is to run the fused + power lead into the cabin, i.e. through the firewall? Obviously, I'd need to ensure no risk of chafing or shorting if I'm snaking it through.
2) How about best source for DC ground -- another lead to the battery (-)?
Thanks.
2008 RX 350

mandyfig

Ground, find the nearest good ground connection. No need to go to the battery.

mandyfig

You must look at the wiring diagrams to find the nearest spot. There's a bunch of them.

salimshah

For my 1st gen RX ('99) I ran a 12v line through the rubber grommet [lots of wires come through there]. This grommet is located behind the cabin fuse box and I had to undo the plastic shields in the driver side front wheel well.

Salim

tawm

Thank you guys! I appreciate the suggestions. I guess I also need to think about avoiding RF electrical noise coming into the radio, and getting back into the car system -- maybe using some RF chokes.