12v source

[cdrracing]

I am getting ready to install a "hard wired" radar detector and I was just wondering where I might find a 12v source (switching power or constant is fine) that I can tap into.
I looked under the dash and found the aux switch wires but I don't want to hook it to a switch like that. can someone help me find a constant power or keyed power wire.

[dereku]

Well there are these large boxes under the hood with a big (+) and (-) on the top you want the (+).

I am kidding just tap into the fuse box and use a multimeter to find a good source.

[SnakeaterZ06]

How bout tapping into your rear view mirror? If you have a Escort passport or a Bell or Valentine One... Inviscord makes a cord that plugs into your rearview mirror power because there is a 12 volt constant and ground. Then you can make a mount that clips off your passenger side sun visor. The Corvette guys do it all the time. Here is some links for you to get an idea.

Radar detector mount (home made) - Improvement over original (pics included) - Corvette Forum

Clean Escort Radar Mount w/pics - Corvette Forum

There you go.. I can get some pics of my set up this weekend

[cdrracing]

I ended up mounting it to the left of the steering wheel on the dash (there is a flat spot just to the left of the gauges). I used two strips of ultra sticky Velcro and and set it where I wanted it, then just let it sit for a day or so.
I opened the plastic panel on the drivers side of the dash (that becomes visible when you open the door), I wanted a constant power (not switching with the ignition) so I tracked down and tied into a constant power wire.
As for the ground, I simply found a bolt that was already screwed into metal under the dash, unscrewed it a bit and wrapped the wire around it and screwed it back in.
Then I tucked the wire up and around the pillar where it would stick out enough to reach the radar detector.

I will get pictures as soon as I can.

[ShirtaDay.com]

That's not exactly ideal placement for a radar detector. For the best performance, it should be centered, above the windshield wipers, but as close to the dash as possible. It should have unobstructed views forwards and backwards.

[cdrracing]

I mounted it there because it has perfect front visibility and it is close to power, it also has a flat mounting spot (almost asking for a radar detector).
It doesn't have great rear visibility but I'm not so worried about that.