markm (10/26/82)
So much has been discussed lately about radar deetectors that I'd like to pass along a great way to get power to those little boxes. I have used this method in my own car and it not only gives you a handy power source, but also a handy switch panel and map lights (especiialy handy on night rallyes - which was why I did it in the first place). Before tackling this instalation, the owner should possess the ancient skills of soldering and wiring. Anyway, all you need is a set of dual map lights from JCWhitney (I hope thats a familiar name to you all) and the mounting housing that goes with it. I'm talking about those dual map lights on the ball mounts (sell for about $10). The housing is about $4 and is black plastic. The lights have two intenstity levels. The housing should be mounted on the headliner just above the rear-view mirror. The LONG side of the housing should face AWAY from the windsheild. On this long side (about 4" x 6") you can fit roughly 4 switches (and indicator lights) and a couple of small power jacks (from Radio Shack). The actual wiring configuation is up to personal taste. This set up will allow wires to run to the radar detector on the visor with very little problem. It's also a neat place to tap power for a hand held spotlight. Wires run from th lights, through the headliner, down the frame, and into the fuse block. Most headliners will have no problem supporting the unit (with switches it's only a few ounces). A few bolts through the headliner hold it in place. With wire, indicators, and switches the whole thing should run about $20. It takes about an hour to drill and wire the housing, and another couple of hours to install. For those of you wondering what all those switches are used for, my panel has switches for Fog Lights, Driving Lights, 2 12V power jacks, and an Aft Mounted Fog Light (for those people who get a little too close). The front of the housing can also hold a digital clock if that's your fancy. If all your extra lighting is on relays (and it should be), the wiring doesn't have to be all that robust. It's a nice saturday afternoon project. The map lights can have their lenses painted red to filter the light better. If any one wants more info, you know where I'm at. MSMiller GR Concord, MA