Power Source for Radar Detector?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 172
Likes: 0
Power Source for Radar Detector?
Where can I tie into a switched power source under the dash for my radar detector? Can someone please provide a specific example?
Side Note:
I have 500 miles on my Z51 in three days. No issues at all, in fact, I was really worried that the transmission shifting would suck like my C6 did BUT, that is not the case. The trans shifting is just excellent. Chevy did a great job with this Vette.
Side Note:
I have 500 miles on my Z51 in three days. No issues at all, in fact, I was really worried that the transmission shifting would suck like my C6 did BUT, that is not the case. The trans shifting is just excellent. Chevy did a great job with this Vette.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 172
Likes: 0
Update:
On the ODB plug, the lower right corner is the hot lead, I simply tied into that. Also, the wire is easy to identify on the rear of the plug.
I worry about running out of batter power. Although, I am intrigued... how long do the batteries last? Maybe I should reconsider.
On the ODB plug, the lower right corner is the hot lead, I simply tied into that. Also, the wire is easy to identify on the rear of the plug.
I worry about running out of batter power. Although, I am intrigued... how long do the batteries last? Maybe I should reconsider.
Racer
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 287
Likes: 1
Update:
On the ODB plug, the lower right corner is the hot lead, I simply tied into that. Also, the wire is easy to identify on the rear of the plug.
I worry about running out of batter power. Although, I am intrigued... how long do the batteries last? Maybe I should reconsider.
On the ODB plug, the lower right corner is the hot lead, I simply tied into that. Also, the wire is easy to identify on the rear of the plug.
I worry about running out of batter power. Although, I am intrigued... how long do the batteries last? Maybe I should reconsider.
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 4,875
Likes: 1,174
Having done a little bit of research and admitting to not being an expert, I was under the strong impression that radar detectors need a lot of power to be really effective and wireless ones were less able to pick up threats.
Former Vendor
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: League City Texas
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: NYC
2015 C7 of the Year Finalist
I tapped into fuse # 37 in rear fuse box, this is the one that powers the console accessory which shut off when ignition is off.
Run the wire under door sill plate and lift rear carpet to access fuse box, very easy.
Run the wire under door sill plate and lift rear carpet to access fuse box, very easy.
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E-Ray, 3LZ, ZER, LIFT
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 34,984
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From: NE South Carolina
However, I would say getting access to the rear fuse panel takes some effort!
Full set of pics at http://netwelding.com/Reports_Vette_Info.htm if interested.
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 1,906
Likes: 51
From: Tampa Florida
I just installed my V1 and ordered the OBD adapter that plugs right into the OBD port. With the car off and the doors closed the unit powers down. As soon as you open the car door the unit powers up. Very simple and easy.
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
I'm convinced that the best solution is to buy the direct wire power cord for your radar detector and something called an "add-a-circuit" (you can find them on amazon).
You simply plug the add-a-circuit into the radio fuse, crimp the power wire to the add-a-circuit, and find a bolt to attach the ground wire to.
Your radar detector will get power whenever your radio gets power (accessory mode/ignition on).
You simply plug the add-a-circuit into the radio fuse, crimp the power wire to the add-a-circuit, and find a bolt to attach the ground wire to.
Your radar detector will get power whenever your radio gets power (accessory mode/ignition on).
7th Gear
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 7
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From: Fort Lauderdale Florida
Actually had the local Best Buy mobile guy who knows me, run the hardwire kit wire (can work on any unit, but I decided to try the new Cobra 7800BT and so far so good...and I've had V1's for years) ... ran the wire to the back of the center console globe box 'outlet'.. of course they have the right tools to pull back trim (so not a mark); and i chose to mount it by the left A-frame atop to the dash. The technician specially formed a small plastic platform to stand it on; using just velcro under it. No suction cups; no large mount; no brackets. All works fine and unobtrusively. And yes that circuit is hot only when the key is on. Also surprisingly noticed that the front console outlet when left open is a perfect stand for the iPhone 5/s, and that is the companion if you're watching traffic cam monitoring etc. The detector uses the phone bluetooth to get GPS, hence correct speed and audio alerts to traffic cams and speed traps on the database (dynamically updated). Never used a Cobra; but this is their top model and I wonder if all the better ones use the same processor?
E-Ray, 3LZ, ZER, LIFT
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 34,984
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From: NE South Carolina
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: NYC
2015 C7 of the Year Finalist
Mounted my Passport Max as high as possible on the windshield. Ran the wire in a piece of “D” rubber molding across the top of windshield, then inside the “A” pillar and behind molding to fuse 37 in the rear fuse panel. If interested. A full set of pics is at http://netwelding.com/Reports_Vette_Info.htm
E-Ray, 3LZ, ZER, LIFT
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 34,984
Likes: 12,384
From: NE South Carolina
You're welcome. More to add soon. Just received the painted door protectors; will install before a car show this Saturday. I park very close to a garage wall and need the driver's side protector to prevent scuffing the door panel when exiting. Waiting for a Skip Shift Eliminator that will not trip fault codes. Thought I would need some type of bracket to hold a water bottle, in fact bought a CF device I thought would work. However the C7 tapered bottle purchased with some felt pads added to the rear holder, appears to be working without causing it to fall out on high "g" turns! As soon as the aftermarket comes out with new items, I’m sure there will be more!