Find power source in engine compartment

[rolls 912]

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

[quint22cp]

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

[rolls 912]

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

[Rawknees'Turbo]

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).

[wayner]

I agree

The starter is a good distribution point.

[gomezoneill]

Originally Posted by Rawknees'Turbo

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).

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.

[safe]

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.

[rolls 912]

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).

[timmy2]

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

[safe]

Originally Posted by timmy2

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.

[Rawknees'Turbo]

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.

[rolls 912]

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.