Looking for constant electrical power for dash cam. Need help!

I'm wiring in a dash cam to always be on when the truck is on. It automatically starts recording when it gets power. The problem is if I plug it into the cigarette lighter then it turns on when I turn the key to ON but don't crank the engine. I let it sit there while I buckle and take ebrake off to allow the fuel pump to prime. When I crank the engine, the power is cut while the starter works which makes the dash cam start to power down. The truck then starts and the cam finishes powering down and doesn't start back up. I plan to wire this to an add a fuse and put that into one of the fuse spots behind the change drawer. So my options are:
1. Find a fuse that is only hot when the truck is running and not just in key on position. I don't think this exists, does anyone know?
2. Find a fuse that doesn't loose power when cranking. Again, I don't think this exists but maybe someone knows?
3. Wire it to a switch and turn it on after the truck is already started. This will work but it defeats the hands free idea of the dash cam if I have to push a button every time.
4. Some genius idea that I haven't thought of???

Anyone done this before and have any ideas?? Thanks!

 

Your best bet would probably be a switch and relay.

 

I'm new to Toyotas but there has to be a wire that ALWAYS has power when the ignition is on, even when you are cranking the starter, reason being that the ECU needs power to run the motor when its cranking. The radio isn't wired like this in my '15, but there is a wire somewhere in the truck that should give you what you want. Probably somewhere around the computer.

I'm not 100% on this with regard to Toyotas, but it applies to a lot of GM stuff I've worked on.

 

A quick look at the schematics from a 2012 Tacoma ( pretty sure yours is the same ). What you want is the IG1 or IG2 Circuits they are both hot during starting and when running. They are also off when the key is off.

IG1 Circuit Supplies these fuses:

10a Backup Lp fuse.
10a IG1 fuse.
30a WIP fuse. ( Windshield Wiper )
20a 4WD fuse.
10a IG1 No2 fuse.
10a WSH fuse. ( Windshield washer )

IG2 Circuit Supplies these fuses:

7.5a Gauge fuse.
15a Ign fuse.

Any of these fuses should do what you want. Make sure you supply the fuse tap with a proper fuse for the device.

 

Don't know what type of dash cam you're running or planning on running, but most if not all dash cams don't just power on and off instantly. It takes about 10 seconds for it to boot up and down. Therefore, the camera won't even notice that split second of power cut from cranking.

I'm sure you can just get a test light to find a constant power source from the fuse box, or just run it directly to your battery if you can't find one and really need one badly. Also, most cameras out there will just overheat if leave on all the time.

 

Doc, it hurts when I do this... O.K. don't do that.

Why not just stop doing this? Problem solved...

 

I used this one and it works perfect! Thank you!

For the other questions, it's a G1W-C. Takes about 5 seconds to start up and shut down, but it starts it sequence as soon as power is applied/lost. I had it wired into the cigarette outlet 15A fuse spot, but it kept shutting down when I started the truck.

I let the fuel pump prime because the truck starts smoother and with less cranks when I do.

Now I just need to find a good way to attach it to the rear view bracket so it's hidden behind the mirror.

 

Glad that I could help and it worked out for you!

 

I think the highlighted line above is what is causing the issue. I have an A118 and if I pause on ACC the cam will start and then stop when it cuts power when I switch it to start. If I go straight to start it powers right up and stays on. I'm glad you found what you were looking for.

 

Could a guy use one of those same fuses to power 4 led lights to always be on in a raptor style grill?

 

Yes, you could.

 

I am a bit of a wiring noob, how would you go abouts wiring to a fuse?

 

https://www.google.com/search?q=Aux+fuse+tap+for+car&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8

Use a fuse tap you can buy at any auto parts store. See the link above.

 

Yeah I found those shortly after I had asked. But to make sure, since I am away from my truck till next week. Those fuses listed above are the ones inside next to the steering wheel from what I can find right? Sorry about all the stupid questions here.

 

Dammit, I understand the frustration. I too like to turn the key to the ON position for a couple of seconds, to let the fuel pump get going before I crank the engine, but maybe that's just left over from what my dad taught me 30 years ago. I have the same dash cam that you have, by the way. Hides really nicely in front of the rearview mirror. I stuck mine on there with double-sided 3M tape, and it works perfectly through all seasons here in Iowa.

 

Yes that is where they are.