Power Under Dash

[Tuckman1941]

So I'm in the process of installing my new CB radio, and thought it would be easy to get switched power off my cig lighter socket. I started unscrewing the panels around my dash and ran out of screws to take out.

How do I remove the center part of my dash?

While I'm at it, I'm planing on hardwiring a few other things. I want them all switched so I don't have to worry about killing my battery.

There must be an easier way to get my hands on a hot wire. Everything on my 2000 is neatly tucked away where I can't tell what's what.

Tucker

 

[FitchVA]

well according to my '98 FSM, here's what it says to remove the center section of the dash that's around the stereo and climate controls...

Using a trim stick or other suitable wide flat-bladed tool, gently pry the instument panel center bezel away from the instrument panel to release the six snap clip retainers.

i'm not sure how much difference there is between a '98 and a '00. hope it helps

 

[Tuckman1941]

Great, I was about to try something along those lines but felt like I was going to do something I'd regret.

I guess my next investment is going to be an FSM!

Thanks!

Tucker

 

[RCP Phx]

The center section (where the radio/lighters are) just snaps straight out.Its held on by like 4 or maybe 6 clips(It hasn't been off lately).

 

[railroadjeep]

FWIW: My CB (wired to a constant hot) has been turned off maybe 4 times in the 3 years I've had it in my XJ, and the only time my battery has died is when I leave something else on, like headlights. I don't think a quiet CB is much of a power draw, at least my CB isn't.

Just thought I'd toss that one in.

Chris O.

 

[roke40]

On my '98 the cigarette lighter isn't always hot. It's only on when the ignition is on. Try wiring it to the aux power supply socket instead. Thats the way I hooked mine up.

 

[seanR]

That is how I wired my CB, I have a 00 and I just pulled the plastic off that goes around the radio and heat controls. Then I took a scotch lock and connected the power wire to the Aux. power socket and I crimped a rind on to the neg line and put that under the nut that holds the sub panel in the dash.