Best / cleanest way to wire new aux power plug

[tdskip]

Hi guys - asking the been there and done that department for ideas on how to properly wire in an aux power source. Good ideas to wire so it is always hot and if so where to pick up the power? If ignition switched where to pick up power?

Thanks, know this is basic but my searches here didn't turn anything up so I thought I'd asd for future Pelicans.

[HawgRyder]

If you do a direct connect...the battery (with a fuse inline) would be the best...and this would also give you the opportunity to install a volt guage.
Next...switched...use a BIG relay...fuse the circuit...and make sure all wiring is one size too big!
You will never regret using bigger wire.
Bob

[timmy2]

Any unused fuse positions on your fuse panel?
I ran a hot direct from the battery to one on my car, fused it and ran a wire directly to my lighter socket so I had constant power there for my accessories when needed. Works great for my trickle charger too.

[tdskip]

Thanks guys.

Is running directly from the battery OK? Any specific wiring color that would put me in a thoughtful prior owner category?

edit - brown and black/red to match up with cigarette lighter maybe?

Thanks!

[timmy2]

As long as you fuse it and label it, direct from the battery should be fine. Brown for ground and red for power is what I would use.

[tdskip]

Thanks!

[Algernon]

For ignition controlled, I just added a dual output socket in center console, tapped into original (fused) lighter wire and under-dash star-ground.
Now I still have un-molested Porsche size socket, and 2 USA sockets for voltmeter and GPS!

[tdskip]

Very clean install, thanks for posting.