Recommended 12V Power Wire for Amateur Radio in 2018 Ford Explorer Limited

Question:

On a 2018 Ford Explorer Limited with SYNC 3, Equipment Group 300A. I require both the ignition switched 12 volts and the non-switched accessory points jack or ports access for connecting amateur radio communications. The compartment fuse block is located on the left wall of the firewall behind the emergency brake pedal. In an almost in-accessible location. I have been told by a Ford service manager that the SYNC 3 switching is also incorporated within the fuse block. How would one connect to obtain power without drilling through the firewall for a direct connection to the battery? Might there be connection jacks for other Ford non-installed accessories hidden behind the dash that might be used? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

asked by: Gerald O

Expert Reply:

There is a limit to the power wires brought into the cab of your 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. If you choose to tap into one of the existing wires, I recommend tapping into the 12V radio power wire so you do not disrupt other functions of the vehicle.

For best results, I highly recommend you add a 12V power wire using # 10-1-1 and a 40 amp circuit breaker like # 9510. This will require drilling into your firewall unless you can find a grommet that already exists that will allow that wire. This is often the case in our installations that another wire can be added to an existing grommet. For the Aux on/off function, I recommend using the Battery Isolation Solenoid # PK5231201 just after the circuit breaker.

expert reply by: Jason S