VHF radio install with factory wiring?

[Webby52]

I am a volunteer firefighter/emt. Had my CX9 for almost 2 weeks. I am about to install my fire dept radio in the well of the trunk, (faceplate and mic in the glove box) but need either an ignition power or constant feed. Was thinking about just using the 12v from the rear power point to run the radio and change out the fuse to 20w. Otherwise maybe tap the trailer feed prewired? I installed the Mazda trailer kit, so I would just shut off radio if I trailer anything. Any ideas? I am trying to keep this as clean as possible as I already had to run speaker wires thru the firewall for the siren and it was pretty intense. I noticed the GT has 110w feature for rear dvd system. Is this pre-wired? I could steal power from there....

 

[ceric]

First, you need to find out how much power your VHF radio consumes (in W).
Divide that by 13V, you get the amperage (A). That decides where you can safely
tap the power wires. If low, there are tap points inside the left kick panel (near your left foot).
If A is high, you better tap them to the battery or the power sockets.
The one below the radio is switched. Other power outlets are all constant. All power sockets are
protected by fuses, so they are safer to use. Raising the fuse might not be a good idea, since
even if the fuse can handle it, other parts may not be.

Just my two cents.

For tap points inside the left kick panel, try to find the
instructions for installing autodimming/HomeLink rear view mirrors. The last few pages
decribe the tap point clearly. You can find the instructions under the "How-To" forum.

 

[Webby52]

Thanks,

I think I'll disconnect the power port for now and use that, the fuse is the same.