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Switched power in Center Console

Discussion in '308/328' started by Boaty_Tom, Jul 24, 2025 at 7:51 AM.

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  1. Boaty_Tom

    Boaty_Tom Karting

    Aug 24, 2024
    56
    United Kingdom
    Full Name:
    Tom
    #1 Boaty_Tom, Jul 24, 2025 at 7:51 AM
    Hi there,
    Having had a charging issues with my 308 GTSi (long story that has its routes in a still existing hot start issue) I've decided to replace the clock with a period correct voltmeter. I know this wont show charging rate, but should give me an indication on condition...

    As the clock was a constant power regardless of ignition, can anyone recommend a suitable switch power supply to take a positive feed to piggy from located in the center console? I've tried taking it from the AC fan switch positive but that doesn't seem to work...

    TIA

    Tom
     
  2. rwbolt1

    rwbolt1 Karting

    Sep 10, 2006
    218
    Boerne, TX
    Full Name:
    Rodney Bolt
    #2 rwbolt1, Jul 24, 2025 at 9:01 AM
    Last edited: Jul 24, 2025 at 9:10 AM
    Image Unavailable, Please Login No need to ditch the clock. I bought a small cigarette lighter digital voltmeter on Amazon. It displays voltage down to the tenth. It works great. You can see the voltage increase after blipping the throttle to excite the alternator to take over from the battery. Interestingly, you can also see voltage dips when turning on high drain accessories (e.g. headlamps or fog lamps). Simply unplug it when you show your car. As a bonus, it also has a USB port for keeping your phone charged.
     
    mike996 likes this.
  3. Dockboy

    Dockboy Formula Junior
    Silver Subscribed

    May 11, 2013
    607
    Maryland
    #3 Dockboy, Jul 24, 2025 at 11:07 AM
    Last edited: Jul 24, 2025 at 11:16 AM
    Tom,

    Just replace your cigarette lighter (keep for later) with something like this:

    Just search for
    12V USB Outlet Charger, 65W PD USB-C Car Port and Quick Charge 3.0, Waterproof Aluminum Cigarette Lighter Replacement Car Socket with Voltmeter and Switch
    on Amazon

    It has a power button if you want to turn it off (I never do)

    Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
    MaranelloMark likes this.
  4. ds190

    ds190 Rookie

    Jul 9, 2012
    30
    Baltimore
    #4 ds190, Jul 24, 2025 at 2:25 PM
    We also use a voltage meter/USB ports device that plugs in to the lighter socket bought on amazon. Move it from car to car as needed.
     
  5. Michael DB

    Michael DB Karting

    Dec 22, 2023
    233
    UK
    Full Name:
    Michael D Beswick
    #5 Michael DB, Jul 25, 2025 at 4:03 AM
    The “generator” light displays the difference between charging rate (from the alternator) and discharging rate (running the car)- it acts like a balance. A meter should show about 14.4 on the battery posts to confirm the alternator is charging as it should with engine running Current drain can be measured using the meter on the appropriate scale. A plug in voltmeter does neither. It can also be misleading showing 12+v but insufficient Amps to run anything.
     

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