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how do I install a switch to operate a separate circuit for my trailer hookup?

I have a 2002 VW Passat Wagon 6 Cyl. 4Motion. I would like to install a switch somewhere on the instrument panel (I seem to have one available space under the seat-warmer dial) in order to operate power on and off to a separate trailer camera. (the screen is removable and just uses the lighter adapter for power) The camera install recommends tying into the reverse lights circuit, but then it only works when in reverse. I am hoping for full-time rear view while towing the trailer, but the camera itself is also not supposed to be on all the time (not a problem if it's only for reverse). Thus it says to incorporate a switch so you can toggle to view as desired without relying on the running light circuit, which would be on all the time and inevitably overheat the camera. I would need the plug to terminate at the trailer wire hookup location, where it could be joined to another plug on the trailer. Basically I want to set up a remote activated rear view camera for the trailer only. The camera would mount on the back of the trailer, and power and video feed would be run through the trailer and forward to the hitch, where it could be plugged into the car when hooking up the other electrics. I don't know if this is possible, however I'm not sure why it wouldn't be, considering the other products I've seen that patch into everywhere. The hardest part is knowing where and how to install the switch, patch the wires, and what route to run the wires to the back of the trunk. It's not like I'm using a circuit that's already controlled (brakes, reverse, etc), I need a whole new one.

What switch is available that looks reasonably stock, and how do I wire it into the fusebox? Is this so complicated I should just pay to have it done at the dealership? Or will they laugh at me when I ask them to do it? I have the feeling no one's ever tried this before in this car, or maybe any car.
Thanks

—submitted by Samwise on May 11th 2009 at 3:40pm.

  • DannytheMechanic
  • Posts: 163
  • May 11 2009 5:12pm

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