Tapping into a 12 Volt Source on a 2001 Chevy Silverado

Updated 05/13/2015 | Published 05/11/2015

Question:

Hi there, Im installing an isolation solenoid in my 01 Silverado 1500. All I need is the 12v ignition source to trigger the solenoid when the engine is running. I see that your advice is to use a fuse tap on the radio fuse, but on my particular vehicle this seems to be hot even when the engine is off. In fact this is true of every fuse Ive tested with a test light thus far. Am I mistaken? Can you suggest a fuse on my vehicle that is truly connected to the ignition system, or another place I can conveniently tap into thats only hot when the engine is running? Thanks

asked by: Teal P

Expert Reply:

What you may need to do is splice into one of the wires going into the radio that is only hot when the car is on rather than use a fuse tap. Or any accessory that only receives power when the ignition is on such as a radio, antenna, windshield wipers to name a few.

If you are looking at the 12v sticker on the solenoid # PK5231201, right above it will be the auxiliary center post which is usually attached to an ignition switch wire.

expert reply by: Chris B