This seems like an interesting and useful mod- let us know what you work
out. I was left high and dry in my old Rabbit probably four times by buddies
that turned my radio down but didn't turn it off for whatever reason. It was
wired hot and activated a small amp, so overnight was enough to drain the
battery. It'd be nice to have an alternative.
On another obscure note, there are many jurisdictions where you can get a
DUI for drinking/being 'drunk' and sitting in your car with the key in the
ignition. Doesn't have to be started, you don't have to planning to go
anywhere.... It occurs to me that somebody could be sitting in their car at
a beach or the like with the key in the ignition, listening to the radio
with a beer in their hand... and pop. That would suck.

Cya,
Robert

----- Original Message -----
From: "Neal Barrentine" <vwneal@BLUEMARBLE.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, February 24, 2006 10:44 AM
Subject: Re: '86 GL electrical (sound system) question

> The gray and black wire coming from the ignition switch is indeed the
> "key in ignition" circuit wire. Thanks! Now, where do I get a relay
> that will work for powering my head unit? I would like it to slide onto
> my fuse box, and be all neat and pretty, like the way it is now. I am
> not an electrical engineer by any means, so I'm not exactly sure what
> relay will work.
> Drive and enjoy your VW daily!
> On Feb 24, 2006, at 12:12 AM, Mike Collum wrote:
>
>> Vanagons do have the "key in ignition" circuit.  As I recall, it's a
>> gray and black wire.  If you're concerned that that little circuit
>> wouldn't be hefty enough (I haven't checked it out for current
>> capacity) you could always put a relay in there.  Anyway, using that
>> circuit you would have power to the head unit whenever the key is in
>> the ignition ... without it having to be turned on.
>>
>> Mike