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I often am reluctant to ask questions or for help hear because I can't contribute to the wealth of information shared here because my lack of experience and knowledge. I one day hope to be a meaning contributor and share information instead of always asking for it. To the point, For those that are running the Dakota (2004-2006) bucket seats or anyone that have powered seats in general. What is the best way to power them, do I run the power directly from the battery or from the fuse pannel insie the truck? If from the fuse panel, what size fuse is safe, 10, 15, 25 or 30 am fuses are the ones available to me on my panel. Desperate to try and get this done because for the summer because hear in San Antonio, we are already reaching high 80's during the day. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Bmoran4, thank you for the information. Would running a Fused power wire to the 50 amp fuse in the cab be an acceptable and SAFE way to get power to the seats?
In regards to the Dakota (2004-2006) bucket seats (and I am not looking it up) there are two kinds of power seats, non-computerized (usually with out memory) and with memory and a micro chip. The non-computerized is a two wire hook up power and ground; if your seats are computerized you have to replace the chip with relays. Ask me how I know this.
I have the Non memorize seats and you are correct, it only has two wires. Just keenly afraid of wiring incorrectly and potentially causing a fire hazard. I wont't ask how you know... LOL
FWIW, never hold back on asking a question just because you THINK you don't have something to contribute.
The question itself is a contribution in that it may be about something someone else needs an answer to or was considering looking for information on.
The question may lead to other issues or questions that are helpful as proven in this post. I bet not everyone knew there were 2 different types of power seats and relays were required to work around the memory seat models.
The only qualifier is do your best to search the forums for an answers to your question first so as not to go over a well traveled road. That can come across as lazy and others may be less inclined to help, but usually not, this is a vey supportive board.
Good luck on getting those seats in! I dont think there is enough room between me and the steering wheel to consider a power seat
Your response was both appreciated and insightful. I never looked at asking a question in and of itself could be informative. FYI, I did do my best to search the board prior to asking, I did find some information on the Dakota seats but what I found was mostly that they were a good option for installing in the 48-50 model F1. Thank you and I never looked at it from that perspective. I couldnt find anything on the actual wiring install of the seats hence my question. Thanks again.
Bmoran4, thank you for the information. Would running a Fused power wire to the 50 amp fuse in the cab be an acceptable and SAFE way to get power to the seats?
The best and safest option would be to run a fuse right near the battery and then your power wire in to the seat. That way if there is a short in the wire anywhere the fuse will blow and not burn your truck to the ground. Also, make sure to use at least 10 gauge wire at least, 8 would be better.
The best and safest option would be to run a fuse right near the battery and then your power wire in to the seat. That way if there is a short in the wire anywhere the fuse will blow and not burn your truck to the ground. Also, make sure to use at least 10 gauge wire at least, 8 would be better.
Just me, If I was doing this, I would wire just like Hammermanr suggests. But I would add a relay between the fuse and the seat +12 volt feed. The relay coil would be connected to the ACC terminal on your ignition switch. This would cut off the power to the seats when the Ignition key is switched to off. It complicates the wiring just a little more. But it adds a little more safety factor that the seat would not be powered with the truck off.
Just me, If I was doing this, I would wire just like Hammermanr suggests. But I would add a relay between the fuse and the seat +12 volt feed. The relay coil would be connected to the ACC terminal on your ignition switch. This would cut off the power to the seats when the Ignition key is switched to off. It complicates the wiring just a little more. But it adds a little more safety factor that the seat would not be powered with the truck off.
That's a decent idea! Just make sure to use a relay rated for 50amp...it will take a big one. A solenoid would be the best option at this point.
Yes, the relay is a good idea (for almost everything) Not so sure about the fuse, an automatic resetting circuit breaker might be better.
Now, should the seats be operational all the time (OEM style) or just when the key or ignition is on ? I like the seconded choice for safety reasons but have mine hot all the time (with a master shut off switch). During the build there are times when the seats have to be moved for many reasons and it is more convenient to only have to use the seat switch. Pictures for no reason, my '51 f1 and a other make.
Thank you all for the information. I now have what I feel is a good and safe way forward. Will use fuse and relay as suggested with the relay running off the ACC from the ignition. Your suggestions and willingness to share your experience and knowledge is greatly appreciated. Here is a picture of the truck that you are helping me finish.
