Adding a second 12-volt power tap to a vehicle with an existing tap or cigarette lighter is usually done for convenience. Useful for powering an MP3 player, netbook or other low amperage portable device, a secondary power tap can be placed anywhere there is available space. Whether the outlet is tucked away or surface-mounted is up to you, but the wiring scheme is largely the same.
Instructions
1. Locate the 12-volt outlet or cigarette lighter you wish to tap off. Remove the panel with the appropriate screwdriver and/or ratchet and socket set. Consult the vehicle's schematic if required to locate specific screw, bolt, and clip locations if you're unsure. Note which piece of hardware goes where for replacement later.
2. Find the black and red wires leading to the 12-volt tap. Center each wire into the teeth of the T-tap connector. Fold the connector over until the latch snaps together. Squeeze the connectors firmly with the needle-nose pliers to ensure a good connector bite on the wire.
3. Strip 1/4 inch of insulation from the red and black wires on the new 12-volt adapter. Slide a male spade terminal over each wire. Crimp them to the wire with the wire crimp tool.
4. Slide the male spade into the female slot on the T-tap connector, matching the red and black wires to one another. Push the spade in until it pops into place.
5. Wrap any exposed metal on the new outlet with electrical tape.
6. Mount or hide the outlet as desired. Attach the panel housing to the new outlet.
Tags: black wires, cigarette lighter, each wire, male spade, Slide male, Slide male spade