Quote:
Originally Posted by Lotus7
You can certainly do it that way, but it means running some fairly long wires. The overhead panel method that Alanintx used is a much more elegant solution.
FYI:
The X3 actually has (2) fuse boxes:
FB Number 1 is in the right rear fender area just below the gas filler neck. It's accessed by removing the interior fiber panel and then rolling back the insulation blanket below. You probably don't want to run wires to that one. 
FB Number 2 is behind the glovebox (WAY behind the glovebox!) There is a small removable panel at the back of the glovebox (right side on N.A. cars) that when removed will let you SEE fuse box 2. However, the opening is very small, so you must either use some long nosed pliers or have a small child with tiny hands change fuses through the opening. The alternate way (probably the only way for most of us), is to remove the glove box mounting screws for better access. There are several circuits there that will work including the 12v. accessory feed which is automatically switched off after the car has been parked for 10-15 minutes. (fuse 54)
Fuse location diagrams attached: |
I just received the hardwire kit in the mail so I'm going to try it this weekend. I'm wanting to keep the radar detector on the corner of the dash, so tying into the overhead console won't be a good option. So, I'm thinking that the best bet will be to either route into the fuse box or tap into wiring under/around the dash area.
--Anyone know of any good power and ground wires under the dash to tap into? I'm definitely looking for something that will turn on and off w/ the ignition
--If I do use the fuse box for the power supply, the fuse 54 that was recommended switches on and off with the ignition correct? Also, are there any good options in that area for the ground?
--Last question (I promise ;-) ), in the fuse box, which side of the outlet that the fuse plugs into is hot? (ie, the fuse has 2 prongs that plug into the right and left sides of the outlet, and it usually seems like a good idea to tap into the side of the outlet that does not have the 12v power hot all the time, that way the power you tap into runs through the fuse first before it runs into your power wire for the radar detector) I don't have a voltmeter so I don't want to just guess on this one