PhilB81

I've read through the hard wire threads, and seems that some of you guys hooked into the fuse box, and some into the overhead, by the rearview mirror and the map lights.

I'm considering buying a V1 unit, and connecting it to one of the wires in the overhead.

I have not seen any CLs with that setup, only TSXs.

Is there a wire I could use in the overhead for a 2001 CLS?
Basically I want a wire that will turn off with the ignition, and obviously have enough amperage to run the V1 at it's full cappacity.

Thanks!

gaping46and2

iTrader: (2)

You can possibly splice into the rearview mirror, but probably the best way to go is run the cord down to the fuse box on the driver side, and get an "add a fuse" from any autopart store. I used the side mirror heater fuse and plugged it into that, then used one of the bolts down there to ground it. Then again, I don't have a V1, and I believe they make a hard wire kit for the V1 anyway, so all this is probably not necessary.

fuzzy02CLS

iTrader: (2)

My V1 is hooked in this way.
You can get a hard wire cord from Escort for a 7500(not the smart cord just the regular hard wire)
That has 2 simple connections, power with a fuse & ground. It's not a big thing like V1's hard wire kit.
I have my CL & Explorer hooked up this way.
I don't even have a fuse tap. I have the spliced 12V wire wrapped around the power mirror fuse & the ground at a bolt near the fuse box.

You can tap into the mirror. I've done that on other cars. Worked fine.
I think it's just easier to run the hard wire.

PhilB81

great, the V1 should be home today, so I'll look at what came with it, and how much cord I have, I hope it includes a fuse.

Thanks for the replies, I'll probably drag it to the fuse box as you guys recommended.

fuzzy02CLS

iTrader: (2)

Oh yes it has everything you need. I just don't like the V1 kit cause it's a bit bulky & unnecessary IMHO.

PhilB81

hehe, i'll do the work this weekend.

can any of you show me a pic where u put the unit by the mirror? seeing where you guys mount it would be appreciated it.

if no images, a description would do just fine too, thanks

fuzzy02CLS

iTrader: (2)

Directly under the mirror, center of windshield with a clear view of the font & rear.

KaMLuNg

iTrader: (5)

is this the hardwire you are talking about???

https://www.escortradar.com/cp/cgi-b...irect_wirecord

i just thought the V1 was kind of bulky with the square box..

fuzzy02CLS

iTrader: (2)

Yes that is the 1 I have.

PhilB81

Alright got mine hooked up over the weekend. the V1 thing is kinda big, but it fits 1/2 well in the fuse box area.
I initially tried to plug it in the daytime running lights fuse slot, but I realized it doesn't have those metal prongs to hold a fuse in, and the 12v line was WAY in there, and if you twisted around too much you can hit the chassie, making fun little sparks.
After some debate, I decided that although sparks are cool, I do not want them happening in my car, so I just put a wire in with the fuse for the heated seats as you guys suggested, tucked the wire in around the trim. (didn't even remove the plastic trim).

I like how easy to reach the unit becomes when mounted at the top of the windshield.

Thanks to everyone for the advice on hooking this up.

-Phil

KaMLuNg

iTrader: (5)

i just sent my unit out to get upgraded.. i will hardwire when i get it back..

fuzzy02CLS

iTrader: (2)

Glad to hear!