Posted: Dec 31 2004 at 12:32pm | IP Logged

I'd like to put a pair of 12v outlets into my truck bed to run a pair of those little ceramic heaters (150w ea., sold as windshield defrosters) to keep my bird dogs warm in their crates. Where and how can I easily pull power from?

Thanks!

Posted: Jan 03 2005 at 3:28pm | IP Logged

You mean they dont get to ride up front?........jk....Hmmm, not sure about that one, but with all the wind in the bed would it do any good?..or do you have a bedcap? If you have a rear sliding window, maybe you could find a 12v DC extension cord...surely someone makes one???

see below

http://www.ba-electronics.com/12v-acc.htm

Posted: Jan 03 2005 at 7:46pm | IP Logged

No room up front! ...The dog crates have covers on them, and the little heaters combined with the dog's own body heat should be all they need. If there is no convenient spot to tap the wiring harness for some +12 v, I'll probably just run a 14 ga. lead to the battery terminal with an in-line breaker.

Thanks.

Posted: Jan 03 2005 at 7:57pm | IP Logged

Hi Kastnblast,

I have the 12 volt outlet in the utility bed package and it's located about a foot forward of the tail lamp assembly on the drivers side.  I would imagine they are coming off that left side tail lamp assembly.  That is also where they the hooked up the canopy wiring so look for a pigtail or unused plug.  Good luck keeping the dogs warm!

Posted: Jan 04 2005 at 9:43am | IP Logged

Hey, good tip. I'll see about getting into the tail light assembly when I get home from work today. Since things are going to be exposed to the elements a bit, I'm going to get marine-grade plugs/breakers, will be hitting a boat store for that soon.

Thanks again!