USB port install Question

[SilverCoMnt07]

Yes, I did a search and I read all of the posts but still have one question that I just need a yay or nay on.

I already used the cig lighter as the power source for my sirius radio, so I can't use it for the USB. There is the 115v inverter wiring harness in the console that I am not going to ever use for it's intended purpose. Can I use it as the power and ground for the usb port or is it a bad idea?

Thanks.

 

[T4RNightHawk]

I would either use an add a fuse circuit (make sure it's the right size. I didn't) or rewire your XM because unless it's meant to be powered off a 12V I think your radio would probably require a higher amp fuse than the 12 V. Either way an add a circuit will be the easiest way to go about this.

 

[SilverCoMnt07]

So pull the xm off the lighter and put it on the 115v harness, maybe?

 

[txclimber]

People seem to over engineer this one all the time. Just get the smokers kit and a little usb plug in adapter. The wiring is already there, just plug and play. Now you have two power outlets. Done.

 

[SilverCoMnt07]

People seem to over engineer this one all the time. Just get the smokers kit and a little usb plug in adapter. The wiring is already there, just plug and play. Now you have two power outlets. Done.

This, while possibly easier, is way more expensive. The USB port cost $7 with free shipping. The smokers kit is $65 everywhere I've seen.

 

[txclimber]

This, while possibly easier, is way more expensive. The USB port cost $7 with free shipping. The smokers kit is $65 everywhere I've seen.

I purchased the kit new on ebay for $34 shipped. Maybe a fluke, maybe not. Here it is for $24 shipped:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/GENUINE-OEM...8b56a0d&pid=100005&rk=1&rkt=6&sd=281602277505

Even at, say, $50, double the cost I found it for just now, my logic is as follows:
The $43 difference is kind of an illusion.

1st-The factory look is super clean and worth something. Let's assign an aesthetic value of say $20. We like them to look good right?

2nd-Plug and play fused wiring. Known to be safe and does not alter factory circuitry in any way. Peace of mind:$20 We like safe?

3rd-Your time! Smokers kit takes 5 minutes. Any other ground up design is going to be closer to an hour. Even if you think you are only worth $15/hour, and I believe you are worth much more than that, tack on an extra $15. Our time is worth something, no?

I agree 100% that the so called $7 solution is cheaper. But as 4runner drivers I posit that we are not necessarily attracted to what is cheap, rather we seek value. Based on the reasons I've put forth, I believe the smoker's kit is a better value.

I'm not intending to be a jerk here, please don't take offense. I just want to point out that As DIY'ers we often get caught up in the project instead of the overall outcome and try to solve a problem that has already been solved for us.

I'm all for pimping our rides and have many custom features on my truck. I just don't need a bootleg usb port when there is a factory option for a couple extra bucks---especially if, like the OP, you're questioning the wiring and unsure of how safe your contraption will end up being.