This thread is useful. Any way you can add the pictures without using Photobucket now that they are charging $$$Others have done this but for what it's worth, here's my experience with adding USB power ports in my 4th gen 4Runner. It's a very easy mod that didn't take 2 hours total despite the problems with the plug, painting, etc.
Edited 12Dec16: Though one port provides 2.1A, turns out I need a more powerful option in practice, for example when traveling, when we have multiple devices to keep charged. Based on another member's recommendation, I am in the process of swapping in a Blue Sea 1039 4.8A model. Some minor tailoring of the switch opening is necessary but I haven't done the install yet so more info on that will be coming soon along with my experience with the Blue Sea port.
I used this product, which definitely presented some challenges as described in my Amazon review.
But all's well that ends well so here is the story. Fortunately, it's very easy to install and access the port so that made the problems much more tolerable.
1. I used quick splices to tap into the 12V power port outlet in the console. Considered using an add-a-circuit but this worked fine. Like the power port, the USB port is controlled by the ignition. Things to keep in mind - as others have noted, be sure the wire you're placing into the quick splice is all the way in and squeeze the metal part all the way down, and be aware that the quick splice things have this conductive jelly stuff in them (much like Vaseline) so have a rag or paper towel handy to wipe your hands before handling any other parts.
New edit: This pic was taken with everything plugged back in and ready to reassemble. Before you start the wiring part, just unplug the white power port plug and blue DAC switch plug. Each has a locking tab on one side and may be tight, so squeeze the tabs and gently work them until they come out. Then lay the big console piece aside and you'll have the space you need to work.
2. Here's how the port looks if installed as sold. It fits the opening perfectly but isn't anywhere close to a match for the OEM switches. BTW, I saw a question about how the OEM plugs come out of the openings in another thread. It's simple, they're held in by tabs and easy to remove.
3. The blue light won't even be noticed by some owners but will probably seem like a blinding blue death laser to others. I fell in the middle. It's not awful but it's at the bottom right limit of my peripheral vision so it was kind of irritating at night. Pics don't do it justice...it's not that passive for lack of a better word, it's pretty bright. See solution below.
4. Since I didn't like the shiny finish, I decided to take the port out and paint the easily removeable cover to better match the OEM switches. Two light coats of flat black and one light coat of a clear matte protective finish (figured it would help the paint hold up better in the long run) did the trick. Wasn't worried about covering the USB logos and figured it might help with the blue light too.
5. Painted and reinstalled.
6. It did help with the light. I've also ordered black dust plugs which will block it completely and keep gunk from getting down into the ports. I'll post an updated pic once those come in.
If anyone has any questions, fire away.
Adding a Console USB Power Port to my 2007 Sport
- Thread starter Bluesky 07
- Start date
TripleTS_T4R
New member
Once again broke links on pictures. I don't understand why people use these!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
did you ever get an answer. Trying to do the same install?
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
Just to annoy people, of course!
In case you're not aware, people used PhotoBucket for many years until the rotten lowlifes there pulled a BS bait-and-switch that should be against the law. They've disabled every link unless you pay for a subscription. I really can't express my disgust for the people that run that site.
Anyway, I'm beginning to relink photos as I can but it's a time-consuming process.
As for the question, I connected the ground for the new USB ports to the ground wire going to the 12V socket as shown here. New port is at top center with wires running to the blue taps, and obviously the black wire is the ground from the new port.
blackoutt
New member
Also I have the used Amazon port up for grabs, comes with fused wire. Snaps right into stock opening. FREE + "pay it forward to another forum member" or send me something cool (got a nice pair of hiking socks that way before!) to first person to quote this part of this post in this thread and say you want it. PM me shipping address.
This FREE item is still up for grabs somehow. Where the vultures at? :shrug:
SOLDDDD a long time ago now
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Bluesky 07
Senior Member
Pics in the original post have been restored.
Hey there, I'm no expert in wiring and such. How many quick splices do I need to use here? One for the rust colored positive, and one for the grounding? I was going to use the blue splices on the cigarette lighter as well. I didn't want to add another fuse and run wire all the way to the fuse box, find a fuse, etc.
Just wanted to update and say **** that piece of shit chinese Amazon dual-USB port thing. The USB ports and circuit boards literally separated from the housing after I tried to plug in my USB cord. Cheap construction, sending it back for my $13 bucks back or whatever. I didn't want to pay $40 for the Blue Sea sturdy one but I may have to after all.
Ill take it !! haha months later
blackoutt
New member
"SOLD" you got it!
joefrog003
New member
RAD4Runner
Senior Member
Nice! Buy once, cry once. Tnx for the info.
Many people write about intermittent problems with USB ports. This fixes one of the common causes - not enough capacity.
We appreciate people sharing their experiences, and details, to help others.
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
Thanks so much. Means a lot to know this thread has been so helpful.
rhoyneriver
Member
Wow, this is a great writeup and thanks for updating the pictures! I'm not very good with any wiring projects, but I may have to give this one a shot! I love the clean OEM finish at the end.
edit: did you disconnect the neg terminal on the battery before starting? or is that not necessary since you're unplugging that white power port plug before splicing?
edit: did you disconnect the neg terminal on the battery before starting? or is that not necessary since you're unplugging that white power port plug before splicing?
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I recently got a new head unit with a usb extension. Does anyone have a similar solution that doesn't give power but simply connects to a usb cord?
I found this, but it's the wrong size: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Toyota-Tac...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649
I found this, but it's the wrong size: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Toyota-Tac...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649
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Add another one to the list of those who have been helped! Thanks so much for your time on this thread. Did the install and it was super easy due to all this info.
Add another one to the list of those who have been helped! Thanks so much for your time on this thread. Did the install and it was super easy due to all this info.
meltdowner
Member
What kind or electrical wire and connectors are you guys using for this. I got my outlet made and it looks decent but now I have to wire it. I think im going to go for an always-on fuse so I can power when off. 16gauge cables good?
