Switched +12V Source under the dash?

[Wiker Man]

Hi, I'm David, Its good to have found a forum dedicated to m42, I have a 1993 E36 318is, actually bought it off an uncle of mine, I love working on the car.


Anyway, this maybe a re post but I am looking for a Switched +12VDC Source under the dash to hardwire some devices. It should be Hot when Key is in 1 or 2. The Cig lighter and Glove Box light is is always Hot and interferes with sleep mode.

I have done a lot of searching and I am getting Mixed responses from the web and this forums. Nothing says it Clearly...


Violet/White stripe - most likely switched 12vdc
Purple w/ white stripe
Red w/ green stripe
Red w/ yellow stripe

Known Switchers source that can handle a few low draw devices like my Gauges, Ipod charger, V1 Rader, GPS, without runing the circuit..

Some input would be appreciated. Thanks

[keflaman]

Hi David and welcome to the forum!

If you don't have it, here is a link to the WDS for your car: http://wedophones.com/Manuals/BMW/1993%20BMW%20318i%20-%20318is%20-%20325i%20-%20325is%20%20Electrical%20Troubleshooting%20Manual.pdf

I'd recommend studying section 0670.3 - Fuse details (starts on page 36) and pick one which is "hot in accessory, run and start".

It's been a while since I last worked on an E36, but there's plenty of corporate knowledge here and someone who can answer better than me will be along shortly.

[Wiker Man]

Thanks pal, I looked into the 0670.3, it gave me some basics but yet not very clear how to proceed, also my car doesn't have a sunroof. But I will probably borrow a Multimeter and test out some wires this weekend.  I was just curious if lets say the Violet/White Stripe wire turns out to be say ACCY on, then should I be okay running my Gauges, GPS, Rader Dectetor etc devices hardwired without damaging or breaking anything?


I also have a foglight set to install, will post a new topic on it now.