3rd Generation Ram - Non Drivetrain - All Years Talk about the 2003 and up Dodge Ram here. PLEASE, NO ENGINE OR DRIVETRAIN DISCUSSION!.

12 volt source in the overhead console?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Oct 24, 2007 | 08:20 PM
  #1  
essgeetee's Avatar
Thread Starter
Registered User
 
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 227
Likes: 1
From: Arlington, Texas
12 volt source in the overhead console?

Sorry to keep posting so many questions lately! I got the hardwire kit for my radar detector (Escort 8500 X50), I was hoping to be able to wire it into the overhead console for the cleanest install possible. I'm trying to figure out if there is a 12 volt source there or not, I won't be able to get my hands on a multimeter for a couple of days. I was able to find some old threads on this, but couldn't find any confirmed answers.

If there is not one there, I will most likely splice the wire and run it down my A-Pillar, I want the detector high and out of the way. If anyone has any other suggestions I'm all ears!
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2007 | 12:29 PM
  #2  
EDR's Avatar
EDR
Registered User
 
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 503
Likes: 0
From: Kennewick, WA
When you say sources, I assume you're talking about tapping into an existing circuit. If so, there should be at least one ot two possible options.
I have the sunroof and the power switch is located toward the rear of the overhead between the two map lights. I would think the power circuit for the sunroof would be there in all trucks and it's a ignition controlled power source. If the sunroof wiring isn't there, you might be able to tap into the auto dimming mirror circuit if you've got the auto dimming mirror.

The overhead map lights are a constant hot, and I wouldn't tap into the overhead monitor's circuit. I tried replacing my SLT monitor with one from a Laramie (to add the Homelink feature) and it messed up the trucks computer. I would be very cautious about messing with the monitor wiring.

To remove the overhead, you just remove the one screw at the front of the overhead and then wrap your fingertips over the edge of the overhead on each side where the two lights are located and gently pull down to release the spring clips. It should drop enough to remove the two or three connectors for the lights, monitor and sunroof (if you have one).

The connectors are locked on with a plastic tab, so be careful pulling them apart. I used a small flat blade screwdriver to remove at least the one for the monitor.

Good luck, and let us know how you ended up installing the detector.
Reply
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Festus
Other
11
Mar 2, 2011 01:00 AM
chuckybones
2nd Gen. Dodge Ram - No Drivetrain
9
Jul 22, 2008 05:55 PM
440forPOWER
1st Gen. Ram - All Topics
12
Mar 24, 2006 12:59 AM
12valve@heart
General Diesel Discussion
10
Mar 7, 2005 12:19 AM
Dieseldude4x4
2nd Gen. Dodge Ram - No Drivetrain
10
Jan 4, 2003 03:07 PM




All times are GMT -5. The time now is 09:45 PM.