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Build Thread Auxiliary USB charging point in auxiliary footwell power point

rovie

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After installing a 12V Deutsch DT socket (from Australia!) in the boot a few weeks ago, I was able to complete the installation of 2 more sockets in the right front footwell today. However, I didn't use the right outer trim like @Jean Mercier , but went into the centre tunnel trim.
One socket takes the standard 12V plug, the other 2 different USB plugs.
If you want to do this too, please note that the installation space is very limited. Have a look at the pictures. But the sockets just about fit in these places.
I installed Deutsch connectors under the glove compartment and under the right side panel, so that I can disconnect the cable if necessary and also operate another device with a Deutsch DT plug in the right front footwell.

In this context, I would like to point out a possible connection from the footwell through the bulkhead into the engine compartment. For example, a cable of a radio antenna could be pulled through.

I have added some information here:

1) Did I solder and heat wrap the aux lines or do Deutsch connectors?
I have fitted the cables with Deutsch plugs. I used both DT and DTP. First of all, it was important for me to be able to remove the panelling parts where sockets are installed (12V cigarette lighter socket and USB sockets) by disconnecting the Deutsch connectors. I used Deutsch DTP connections for the original INT1 and INT2 cable ends. For the round 12V and USB sockets, flat cable lugs that fit onto the plugs of the sockets. The elongated sockets that I have installed in the passenger footwell and in the rear of the vehicle have German DT plugs. I ordered these sockets in Australia. I found them very attractive and not obtrusive. They were from the 3D printer in black colour. I painted them grey.

2) Did I install a splitter since I have 2 ports on each side, or did I just run connecting wire between the ports?
On the driver's side, I have routed the INT1 connection directly into the rear of the vehicle. On the passenger side, I have routed a cable from INT2 via the Australian connector into the centre tunnel. There I connected the two round 12V and USB sockets with a cable bridge.

3) What gauge connecting wire did I use?
I have 2 cables with a diameter of 1.5 mm2 each, both of which are provided with a flexible sheath so that any vibrations do not destroy the insulation of the 12V cable.

4) How did I run the aux lines from the side to the center stack? Under the floor? Behind the dash? Under the seat and up from the back of the console?
I laid a cable from the A-pillar on the passenger side (INT2) under the A-pillar panelling to the ‘Australian plug’ under the glove compartment panelling. Right at the top in the footwell, so that you can't get your feet caught. From there behind the panelling of the centre tunnel.

5) Is there anything I would do differently, in hindsight?
Yes, I would no longer position the round sockets so that the plugs and thus the cables of the connected devices no longer point horizontally into the passenger footwell. Depending on the seating position, this can graze the passenger's leg. It's not really annoying, but it's not comfortable either. There are angled sockets.
I would definitely install the ‘Australian socket’ again. It has proved its worth, as both I and my garage had to remove the panelling in the footwell. It is simply convenient.
I pulled old bicycle inner tubes over the Deutsch connectors to prevent the plastic housing from rattling against body parts.
Apart from that, I am very satisfied.
I have attached additional photos.
 

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Last edited:

Norb-TX

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That's well done. When re manufacturers going to install USB plug on top of the dash? Does that make too much sense? Although, I'd take any extra USB in the Gren.
 

AnD3rew

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After installing a 12V Deutsch DT socket (from Australia!) in the boot a few weeks ago, I was able to complete the installation of 2 more sockets in the right front footwell today. However, I didn't use the right outer trim like @Jean Mercier , but went into the centre tunnel trim.
One socket takes the standard 12V plug, the other 2 different USB plugs.
If you want to do this too, please note that the installation space is very limited. Have a look at the pictures. But the sockets just about fit in these places.
I installed Deutsch connectors under the glove compartment and under the right side panel, so that I can disconnect the cable if necessary and also operate another device with a Deutsch DT plug in the right front footwell.

In this context, I would like to point out a possible connection from the footwell through the bulkhead into the engine compartment. For example, a cable of a radio antenna could be pulled through.
Excellent thank you, particularly the grommet location thats gold.
 

bakepl

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After installing a 12V Deutsch DT socket (from Australia!) in the boot a few weeks ago, I was able to complete the installation of 2 more sockets in the right front footwell today. However, I didn't use the right outer trim like @Jean Mercier , but went into the centre tunnel trim.
One socket takes the standard 12V plug, the other 2 different USB plugs.
If you want to do this too, please note that the installation space is very limited. Have a look at the pictures. But the sockets just about fit in these places.
I installed Deutsch connectors under the glove compartment and under the right side panel, so that I can disconnect the cable if necessary and also operate another device with a Deutsch DT plug in the right front footwell.

In this context, I would like to point out a possible connection from the footwell through the bulkhead into the engine compartment. For example, a cable of a radio antenna could be pulled through.
Great pics and thanks again for that. I'll consider bringing the usb-data out of the centre box and into this location on the passenger side RHD for my purpose - unless I can fit an outlet in the centre stack somewhere (but it's looking less likely this stage).. so navigator has easy access.
 

AnD3rew

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I am going to have my son 3D print a surround to go here, and mount this. In it. Will replace the on off swich with the rj45 socket for my UHF handset.
IMG_4153.jpeg
IMG_4352.jpeg
 
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The recessed sockets look neat there on the side of the tunnel. I'm thinking of hiding some surface mounted USB sockets (see photo) up under the dash, similar to where you have the Deutsch plug. Advantage of the surface mount is more flexible on location and less likely to be knocked, and the USB cables aren't as stressed - avoids right angled cables. The cables can be clipped down near the socket to secure. Cables will run up to devices on the dash and hopefully hidden either side of the centre stack or under the trims near the doors. When a dashmat comes along it'll cover them on the dash.
 

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bakepl

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I am going to have my son 3D print a surround to go here, and mount this. In it. Will replace the on off swich with the rj45 socket for my UHF handset.
View attachment 7819821View attachment 7819820
1689223445727.png

do we know if there's anything under this area that would prohibit the fitting of the the sockets to this panel? and then how to get behind there? (Jean's pic from memory...)
 

Jean Mercier

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View attachment 7819827
do we know if there's anything under this area that would prohibit the fitting of the the sockets to this panel? and then how to get behind there? (Jean's pic from memory...)
Well, I correct my previous messages: the picture was mine, the car was mine, but the meter was from my youngest son: I took the picture while visiting him there :)
 

Bobby Mac

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I would like to put double outlets in these 4 locations
Two outlets down near the bottom of the central stack for charging phones
One up on the left of the dash (RHD) for powering a dash cam
One up on the right of the dash to power a HUD phone or other screen.
USB outlets are meant to be 1.5A max so there is plenty of capacity to have several outlets coming off each of those 10A circuits.
I have two iPhones with me when working so would like to charge both at same time.

View attachment 7814826
Dave, I found this at Jaycar which would be perfect for that location if there is space behind.
 

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Korg

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I then connected the wires to the USB charging point mounted in the plastic pillar
View attachment 7814820View attachment 7814821
I did push the pillar back in its place and tested the power point, and ready. To test it, you have to switch on the roof power button AND the INT2 button.

View attachment 7814822

That’s how it looks when not in use! In my opinion, quite neat. Thanks for the applause 😉 and if you don’t like it, please tell me why 😊

View attachment 7814823
But its upside down :)
 

Bobby Mac

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I would like to put double outlets in these 4 locations
Two outlets down near the bottom of the central stack for charging phones
One up on the left of the dash (RHD) for powering a dash cam
One up on the right of the dash to power a HUD phone or other screen.
USB outlets are meant to be 1.5A max so there is plenty of capacity to have several outlets coming off each of those 10A circuits.
I have two iPhones with me when working so would like to charge both at same time.

View attachment 7814826
I could be wrong, but I don’t know of anyone who has been in behind the lower dash and I was told by the dealer that they will not put the likes of the Redarc Tow Pro remote control there because what’s behind it.
I got two of these https://bluebarindustries.com.au/product/blue-bar-panel-mount-usb-c-qc-usb-charger/ from DC Voltage at Caboolture and mounted them on each side and I use a right angled lead to keep it out of the way. I connected them to the footwell power feed on either side. They are surface mount so only need a small hole to feed wires through and the self tappers to hold them in place.
It also has the advantage that even with the vehicle shutdown and locked up, if you have the overhead Power switch on, the the Int 1 and/or Int 2 can be switched on to continue to provide power.
I‘m not sure about dashtop, particularly on passenger air bag side??? Would be ideal to have some there - if anyone has done it please share.
 

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DenisM

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I could be wrong, but I don’t know of anyone who has been in behind the lower dash and I was told by the dealer that they will not put the likes of the Redarc Tow Pro remote control there because what’s behind it.
I got two of these https://bluebarindustries.com.au/product/blue-bar-panel-mount-usb-c-qc-usb-charger/ from DC Voltage at Caboolture and mounted them on each side and I use a right angled lead to keep it out of the way. I connected them to the footwell power feed on either side. They are surface mount so only need a small hole to feed wires through and the self tappers to hold them in place.
It also has the advantage that even with the vehicle shutdown and locked up, if you have the overhead Power switch on, the the Int 1 and/or Int 2 can be switched on to continue to provide power.
I‘m not sure about dashtop, particularly on passenger air bag side??? Would be ideal to have some there - if anyone has done it please share.
@Bobby Mac : the dash in front of the passenger has to be left clear of anything which will become a projectile if the airbag deploys. I'm not sure how/ where the dash "separates" to free the airbag ..... presumably it is "sandwiched" between the top of the dash which comes away, and the grab handle below. Hope I never have to find out!!
 

Kruegerruda

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@Bobby Mac : the dash in front of the passenger has to be left clear of anything which will become a projectile if the airbag deploys. I'm not sure how/ where the dash "separates" to free the airbag ..... presumably it is "sandwiched" between the top of the dash which comes away, and the grab handle below. Hope I never have to find out!!
Interesting question! Many will place their sat nav, radio, smartphone or similar in the area.
 

DenisM

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Interesting question! Many will place their sat nav, radio, smartphone or similar in the area.
Re. my previous comments, it's one of the reasons why the highway patrol in Australia cracks down on passengers lounging back with their feet up on the dashboard against the windscreen. There have been cases of folks having their teeth buried in their knees and worse when the aibag has exploded while their feet were up on the dashboard :eek:
 
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