Adding lights - question about switch and blanking panel

[cederholm]

Hey guys,

Time to add some lights to my TJM bumper. How do I remove the lower dash panel to access the stock switch blanking plate? The one on the right of the steering column on a North American truck. Also, what are you guys tapping into for power for the switch? (not the relay, that'll be under the hood)

Thanks,
Carl

 

[brussum]

Use a screwdriver to carefully pry the "wood" trim piece off starting from the door end and working your way to the steering wheel. It's held on with some basic trim clips. Once that's off, you can unclip the top of the switch panel and knee panel. You don't need to pull it all the way out as unclipping the top gives you sufficient access. The blanks just pop right out (they're held in place with tabs on the top and bottom).

You can also access the underside of the dash by unscrewing two screws below the knee airbag and then pushing in on the three tabs that flank the screws. After that, the bottom panel drops down and slides out (unhook the small switch built into the panel).

I ran the main power for my lights straight off the battery. I mounted the relay against the fender wall and just ran the switch leads through the big rubber seal into the passenger compartment. I tapped into the headlight power and ran the lead to the switch and then ran a return lead back to the relay. Lights are now wired so they only come on when the high beams AND switch are turned on. I just used the Lightforce wiring kit and it was pretty painless.

 

[cederholm]

Thanks Brussum! Just the info I needed.