I think that one can take 12 volts from the coil, but the key must be
"on" (but not necessarily the engine).  For the timing light, engine 'on'
should work fine.

I too want to run 12 volts to the rear of the van for a rear shower (with
"shower curtain" hanging from the opened rear lid).  I had planned to
tap into the wires that go to my Westy kitchen water reservoir water
pump, and run wires back from there and out under the rear westy
closet.  FWIW, I plan to order another  westy submersible sink-
reservoir water pump and use that for the shower.  That way I can
submerge the pump into any! container and flip a switch for the
shower.   At least that's my plan.

Please keep me/us informed as to how you actually do it.  Malcolm

> Anyone know a good place to tap 12v from the engine compartment of an
> 84.  I have a timing light that needs it, and I want to run power to a
> pump that will provide a shower head at the rear of the vehicle Thanks
> in advance Phil