Extra power outlets

[Mr Funk]

In my ongoing mission as semi-evil genius I'm needing another power outlet or two to fuel the volcano missile launch system and red onion machine.

Was thinking of sinking another cigarette socket but wondering on the best way to wire it.

[ChrisPears]

Depends on what sort of load you're looking to run from it. The safest, and most difficult would be to wire in another relay fed from the battery and switched from something...in the switched live circuit (the existing lighter perhaps)

[Nate]

^^ what he said, with the addition that it must be fused! i considered robbing the fusebox that mounts to the battery from a newer VW to wire in additional stuff (subs etc)for neatness

[ChrisPears]

Just remembered, on the later fuse boxes, theres an unused live terminal (well it was unused on mine)...its a big'un. Its always live, so I'm guessing comes straight from the battery its on the bottom right if memory serves. Its where I get power for the injectors and lambda heater. Rob one of those relay mounting blocks that slot into the top of the fusebox and you've got a factory look relay install. There may be a spare switched live terminal in there too, can't remember. Basically get a voltmeter and go hunting.

Oh and yeah, what ever you do, make sure its fused as close to the battery as possible if you're running your own wire.

[fonzooorooo]

Won't solve any wiring issues, but may help in your quest for "niceness":

Instead of lighter sockets, use DC power sockets. (Like laptop power sockets) These'll panel mount and be nice and subtle. If you have electrical kit you regularly use in the (same) car, whip the nasty big lighter plugs off and replace with DC power. If you use the same kit in another car, parallel a power socket in with the lighter socket. Keep your lighter socket for random/borrowed stuff.

Just a thought.