My '05 XLT was delivered (as all are) without the lighted runnings boards that the higher models have. After pricing the light boards at the dealer ($600 a side..ouch), and looking at the aftermarket boards, (would rather have the factory look) I have decided on a way to courtesy light my boards. (I even found a used pair on ebay, but who knows the shape they are in...and on a new truck I want them to be nice.)

Anyhow...I have ordered a set of 4 LED strips that are almost 16" long, less than half an inch wide and install with double tape. I figure I'll install one by each door on the part of the body that tucks under just beyond the door. This way, they won;t be visible unless on.

The long part of this is that I want them to work with the dome light...so that when the doors are unlocked, they will go on, etc.

Does anyone know where I can find a wire for this?

Thanks!

 

There may be wiring up underneath for the lighted (but missing) running boards.

I had (have) the same plan for my Expy.

You can also wire it into the main junction box. It is wire #33. Check out this thread for a bit more info. You may want to install a switch to your interior lights while your under there.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...light+override

 

Thanks monsta! This is what I needed. (It is for an Excursion, not an Expedition, right?)

I have found that at least in my truck, if Ford did not install the option..there's no wiring to tap into.This should be easy to wire, set-up a relay to be tripped by the dome light circuit, power the LEDs via this relay to the battery and ground them where they are installed.

At least on my fuse panel, 4 10mm bolts and it will come pretty far out. I have installed factory foglamps, air horns, trailer brake controller, a Valentine 1 outlet, and a remote start/alarm. (I did not personally do the remote start.)

(FYI I mounted the brake unit in the cubby, and the foglamp and air horn switches in the dash next to the power outlet)