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30-Amp

Power to the center console

After getting tangled in my cell phone's power adapter on numerous occasions, I decided to run a power harness to the center console. Initially I just wanted an accessory outlet, but after thinking about it, I decided to run a 30-amp circuit on a relay connected to the ignition. I found that this power source will be useful for anything from GPS and CB to laptop computers and such...

Wiring was easy for this project.

1) Remove console completely

2) Using an electricians fish-tape (or a straightened coat hanger) run 3 wires (red, black and green were my choices) under the carpet from the fuse box to the center console

3) Locate a good clean place to ground, but DO NOT ATTACH THE WIRE YET . I chose the mounting bracket for the hood release

4) Locate a fuse that is only hot when the key is turned on. To do so, use a volt/ohm meter to check the voltage on the fuse. If there is none when the key is out, then you have a good place to start. This is your switched power source - green wire will go here (but not yet).

5) The ideal for main power is to run through the firewall and attach to the battery. I did not make this run yet. I chose to attach my power to the hot-side of a fuse. What I mean is, I removed a fuse and tapped into the side that has power without the fuse there. This way I will not put any load on the fuse.

6) At the console, wire your 30-amp relay as per wiring diagram on package. It is easy - basically a main power in, power out, ground, and switched power in. I then went to a terminal block until I install another fuse box. From there your possibilities are endless!

7) After wiring your relay and terminal block, tap your switched power and main power lines, then your ground. Be sure to disconnect your battery so you don't shock yourself when installing everything. Hope this helps.

Thanks to Hank Grimmick - Hosting and technical guru.  Mike Rutledge - Editor.  Jon McLeod - programming and self-proclaimed geek