Helpful Hint 2.0: Power Outlet Mod

[dogzpaws]

Here's a helpful mod to those of you that would like the power outlets to stay on when the ignition is off. This is very useful if you have a cell phone that you want to keep charging even if the truck is turned off.

To make both outlets hot when the ignition is off:

The two outlets are powered by a relay and two 15 amp fuses in the fuse box in the engine compartment. Note: the two fuses are listed on the cover as outlet 1 and outlet 2 and the relay is the large brown relay 3 in from the engine side of the fuse box. Remove the relay and you will find the socket has 2 large pins and 2 small pins. You will place a jumper across the 2 large pins. The jumper could consist of 3" to 4" of 14 gage wire with 1/4" spade terminals on each end.


To make only one outlet hot when the ignition is off (This is useful if you have a radar detector and want it to come on with the vehicle and a cell phone that you want on all the time). Note: this mod is more complex:

Pick one of the 15 amp fuses previously discussed. You will need to connect a wire with an inline fuse from one of the 15 amp fuses to the stud (provides power to the fuse box at all times) at the inside end of the fuse box at the rear terminal of the position where you removed the fuse. The inline fuse is important so you don't cause a short in your cell phone/radar detector/etc. Place a large size crimp terminal on one end of the wire and a blade style crimp terminal (for connection into the fuse location) on the other end of the wire.

Neither of these mods should impact the lighter plug. Also, you should only perform these mods if you are up to speed with automotive electrical wiring. Good luck.

[dogzpaws]

Originally posted by txbser
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The information presented here is compiled from data from various forums and experience, not TS.com.

[RevHappy Cowboy®]

Originally posted by txbser
BUSTED.....THAT IS AGAINST TS POLICIES....NEW TS SUPPORTER HERE...AF MODERATOR, HE IS BREAKING POLICY RULES SET AT TS.com! I WOULD HATE TO SEE AF INVOLVED IN A LEGAL MATTER...THOUGHT I WOULD BRING IT TO YOUR ATTENTION, I SHALL REPORT THESE TWO TO THE ADMINSTRATOR AT TS.com---THANKS!

Originally seen in AF Guidelines
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[duck995]

Hi Dogzpaws - I am wanting to keep the cigarette lighter on at all times for my cell phone. That location is more convenient than the other outlets. Do you know of a similar solution?

Also, with your solution "To make both outlets hot when the ignition is off" - do the outlets still have fused protection?

Thanks!