Keyed power source (for stereo, gauge bulbs, etc)

[the vegenator]

As much electrical work as I've done on this car, I never quite figured out if there was a switched power source from the fuse box that I could safely tap into to run things like the car stereo only when the key is in the 'on' position. Should I just find a switched wire on the ignition switch harness? Would it make more sense to run a relay?

Curious how other Mk2 owners have approached this...

[steevz]

There is a red/black wire going to the glovebox light that is switched power for stereo. Works great.

[the vegenator]

My 85 has a brown and red wire going to the light - both of which were cut by a previous owner! I'll see if I can find those wires ... hopefully one of them is key powered.

[zman]

I have wondered about that too. There are a few times when I just turn on the ignition , then let the glow plugs relay shut off and listen to the radio.....I cant think of any source other then the glow plugs that use the "ignition on" key setting that would excessively drain the battery except for the glow plugs initial heating, and pump solenoid.
Enough to put a load? Drain that much?

[the man 53]

I tapped into one of the accesory fuse sockets IIRC it was the top side that gives power. I did it with a spade terminal then put an inline fuse holder on that wire. Easy to do even without a bentley if you have the keys and a test light.

[ad]

Probably the easiest keyed circuit is the fuel shut off solenoid. It might be wise to put in a relay and draw straight from the battery, fused of course.