Find power source in engine compartment
 

Hi
I need to find a 12 volt power source in the 3.2l engine department which is only available when the ignition / engine is on. Where would be the best place to find this. Coil area would be best but this is not essential.

cheers

Hi rolls 912,

I have a 1988 3.2L and I took 12V from the fuse box under the plastic cover on the left hand side. I can't remember which fuse so use a meter to test which fuse is hot with the ignition on.

Pete

Thanks Pete. Sorry. Mine is modified / no fuses. It's running in an early 912. Any other thoughts?

The positive lug on the starter solenoid is a perfect source (run wire up through space/gap that is just behind the rear seat back panel) . . . it is keyed, and also you have the added benefit that the power supply is a heavy gauge wire that is not shared with other components (in other words, you won't add additional loads to small gauge wires that are already in use).

I agree

The starter is a good distribution point.

The main power at the starter is not keyed it's constant power. Unless I'm misunderstanding you. Make sure you put in a inline fuse for whatever the purpose is.

In the chassie harness you have both keyed and constant 12v. In the engine harness you have a constant 12v from the starter.

You can pull a new cable from the starter if you need a lot of amps, if so I recomend you put an inline fuse near the starter.

Okay. The wires are extremely thin and delicate. I will definitely install a fuse. The Solito I'd is a bugger to get to. Or can it be accessed via the wheel well (it's in storage - I haven't checked).

There is no switched power at the starter main or solenoid connections.

True, for a switched source you need to look in the 14 pin connector from the harness. Maybe splice into the CDI power supply.

Correct about the starter connection I mentioned earlier being un-switched - I forgot that I used that as a power source for a switched relay to operate condenser fans . . . the compressor clutch acting as the "switch". Sorry for the misinformation from me, Rolls912.

14 pin connector
 

I'm starting to think I would be better off to run a wire to the boot. Don't like the concept of splitting the connector / loom etc. Just thought there might already be power that is only on when the ignition is on in the bay.
All good. Thanks for the replies anyway.