Always hot power outlets - 2001 4runner - **PICTURES**

[ramonortiz55]

So I don't like the fact I cant charge my phone while the truck is off. So I decided on a mod that would enable all power outlets to be always on.

First I found the power outlet relay under the hood in the fuse box.



I pull it out and grab a small flat head screwdriver.



Next I pop off the relay cover with the flat head screwdriver.





See where the flathead screwdriver is poking at? There is a little spring/magnet there. Normally, it will be open. If I stick the screwdriver in there I can "swing" the spring/magnet to close onto a contact.
You need to lift that little spring/magnet thing and slide something non conductive there so that the circuit is always closed.



I wedged a piece of non conductive material in there to keep the relay on at all times. Don't worry, it wont catch on fire. Ive had this mod in my Tacoma and camry for a few years already.

 

[HammerHead]

I'm gonna have to try this. Thanks

 

[kolelt]

Nice man. I did mine differently. I installed a rocker switch style USB outlet. Wired it to a switch. And from the switch to a aux fuse box. So even without th key in. I can flip the switch and get power to the outlet

 

[Lindenwood]

Nice!

I can describe an engine's physical operation in pretty great depth, but electrical systems are much further outside of my comfort zone!

Do you know if this covers the rear outlet as well?

Thanks!

 

[ramonortiz55]

Nice!

I can't describe an engine's physical operation in pretty great depth, but electrical systems are much further outside of my comfort zone!

Do you know if this covers the rear outlet as well?

Thanks!

Yes sir, it does!

 

[Twan]

There's an easier way that just involves removing the relay and just using a jumper wire made from a 3" section and two male crimp on connectors.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/73579-constant-12v-power-mod.html

 

[AntleredRuin]

Unless I'm mistaken, this should allow a Solar Powered Battery Trickle charger to work like this:
1.5 Watt Solar Battery Charger

Keeps the battery from running down when you have an electrical gremlin sapping juice.

I know that a lot of people with Toyotas complain that these trickle chargers don't work because the outlets aren't live when the car is turned off.

Might be cool to stick one above the sunroof cover under the glass if you don't use your sunroof.

Extra insurance for you campers.

 

[Coward]

Another great write up! Keep in mind his is a 2001. This only applies to 1999 and up models with the added power outlets. 96-98 do not have the relay so we are out of luck with THIS method.