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Full time power source for GPS wiring

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by TacoBaja, Nov 30, 2010.

  1. Nov 30, 2010 at 2:48 PM
    #1
    TacoBaja

    TacoBaja [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Because I am not a whiz with electrical stuff, I'll ask those that are....

    My Lowrance gps is currently wired to a source (under dash fuse panel) that works only when the key is on. I would like to wire it to a source that will allow it to remain on even when the key is turned off, thus relying on my questionable memory to remember to shut it off so my battery doesn't go dead.

    It would be a real benefit to have that source easy for me to find, and inside the cab area, not running a wire directly to the battery.

    2006 Tacoma

    Thanks

    TacoBaja
     
  2. Nov 30, 2010 at 2:53 PM
    #2
    98tacoma27

    98tacoma27 is going full "SANDWICH" Moderator

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    Some stuff. Not a lot, just some.
    I might suggest using the DR LCK circuit. It should remain on regardless of ignition position. It will be in the in cab fuse box.
     
  3. Dec 1, 2010 at 6:32 AM
    #3
    RZRob

    RZRob Well-Known Member

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    FTP is a real bad idea - real bad.

    RZ Rob
     
  4. Dec 1, 2010 at 6:44 AM
    #4
    dexterdog

    dexterdog My pee parts itch

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    You just need to find a constant hot lead. Personally, I would only use an ignition hot. My GPS runs on battery power after I turn off the truck. This is usually sufficient.
     
  5. Dec 1, 2010 at 7:02 AM
    #5
    TacoBaja

    TacoBaja [OP] Well-Known Member

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    "FTP" ?? Real bad idea?? essplain, or am I missing something?

    TacoBaja
     
  6. Dec 1, 2010 at 7:07 AM
    #6
    mjp2

    mjp2 Living vicariously through myself Moderator

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    "Full time power", I'm assuming. Mine's wired up to an always-hot junction I installed under the hood.

    Make sure you use fuses in the circuit in case something goes sour. Would much rather blow a fuse than burn up your truck.
     
  7. Dec 1, 2010 at 11:54 AM
    #7
    RZRob

    RZRob Well-Known Member

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    Well just for the same reason you mentioned: that it relies upon you to turn it off. It's like having a slow leak and this can leave you stranded. I have mine on switched-power and it works really well for me.

    I assume this has something to do with saving settings or something? Do tell your rationale. also, curious what brand/model scanner. Personally I'm a fan of the Garmins for a variety of reasons, but some folks just don't like them.

    RZ Rob
     
  8. Dec 1, 2010 at 12:09 PM
    #8
    mjp2

    mjp2 Living vicariously through myself Moderator

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    Based on the OP's name and location, I'm assuming he's talking about a Lowrance for the desert and not a standard road map GPS. For those, it is beneficial to allow them to remain on when the vehicle is off, especially if short stops are expected while wheeling as it takes time for them to boot up and locate satellites.

    IMG_2160_56ef9ec9bb6dfa75204285729ef2f28f16dd9f47.jpg
     
  9. Dec 1, 2010 at 9:11 PM
    #9
    TacoBaja

    TacoBaja [OP] Well-Known Member

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    MJP2 - you hit it exactly - I AM in So. Cal area and the Lowrance has very good maps available for Baja - and the "Map Create 7.0" software does a good job here in the states.

    Yes, I do not want to deal with the re-boot delay everytime I shut off the vehicle, plus, it looses its odometer reading, reverting to zero with every restart. That alone is very inconvenient if you are trying to keep an accurate track of mileage.

    I did locate an under dash wire with constant power, and retained the 3 amp fuse to the GPS.

    John
     
  10. Dec 1, 2010 at 9:31 PM
    #10
    derekAV

    derekAV Well-Known Member

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    not to high-jack lol but where abouts are you from in the high desert? im in Apple Valley
     
  11. Dec 2, 2010 at 5:10 AM
    #11
    TacoBaja

    TacoBaja [OP] Well-Known Member

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    On the Mesa - Hesperia

    JM
     
  12. Dec 2, 2010 at 6:59 AM
    #12
    mjp2

    mjp2 Living vicariously through myself Moderator

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    Very cool. Post pictures of how you're mounting the unit when you're done with the install. Good luck!
     
  13. Dec 4, 2010 at 5:13 AM
    #13
    TacoBaja

    TacoBaja [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I lose a cup holder but the gps is not in direct sunlight nor in direct view of passersby either.

    S7001813.jpg
     

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