Ford Taurus X install

[Steve162]

I have an amateur radio mobile (Yaesu FT 8800) that I want to install in my 2008 Ford Taurus X. For those unfamiliar, this is what Ford originally called the Freestyle but with a bigger engine and six-speed transmission. Because of the different drive train I'm not sure if access to the engine compartment is the same as the Freestyle.

I need to run power to the battery, but if that proves too difficult I'd consider taking power from one of the 12-volt power points in the center console- I just need a tip on how to access this.

Antenna is a Diamond roof rack mount that I'll run into the back door to the radio chassis under the seat. I've decided to put the control head on the console just in front of the shifter.

Any hints gladly accepted, here, or at KA2BQJ@aol.com

Thanks! 73

 

[popnokick]

Steve- Hopefully someone with experience in the Taurus X will reply regarding the 12v lines in the console. I've had good luck with fuseblock taps/clips, but ONLY for receivers and low power transmitters. Since you're going to be transmitting and pulling significant current (more than a couple amps), you want to go to the battery directly if at all possible. In addition to ensuring proper DC power, it makes it simpler to troubleshoot interference issues should they arise. A single run to the battery with a known path is simpler to filter, add toroid chokes, move away from inductive interference, etc. if needed. Look for rubber or plastic grommets/nipples in the firewall. Look from the engine side. They are simpler to locate initially if you are not upside down in the car with your head under a dark dashboard. Many auto manufacturers put empty (no other cables/wires) holes in the firewall for just this purpose. They are plugged with grommets or nipples that can be cut or punched through to run your DC line. Obviously, fuse everything.

 

[ltjweiss]

i have a 05 freestyle, do you need to know how to take apart the center console?