12v source in ECU engine bay box
 

While I search on the forum, can someone confirm which wire to tap for a 12v source? I don't have a way to check with a meter, etc. I'm re-wiring my AE power source. I want the AE to be on only when the key is in pos 1 or 2.

I heard its supposed to be a red/white striped wire but as you can see - there are a LOT of wires! LOL!


http://thumbnails79.imagebam.com/208...d208258370.jpg

[SOLUTION]
Here is the correct wire to tap for a power source that is on only when the key is in position 1 or 2.
http://thumbnails66.imagebam.com/208...8208282803.jpg

Check this thread, post#26 by djbock
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...uctions-3.html
Not sure if the wires are the same between 01 4.4i and 04 4.8is though. I tap the same wire for my AEs.

Thanks TMV but I actually looked at that already.

For some reason my 4.8 doesn't seem to have the 3.0/4.4 harness with the black plug that has those wires. On mine, the block where that plug goes only has two wires going into it - no plug at all. :(

Hopefully someone with a 4.8 will chime-in. Once I have this solved, it will be a blessing for everyone. :)

Have you looked here:
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...tml#post672693

Not sure if 4.8 has the same LCM at the front passenger foot area.:dunno:

But it's one of the cleanest, else in the steering column area, there is yelow/brown stripe wire that is ACC (accessories pos 1/2 on) you can splice; but I can only suggest test it using DMM to make sure.
GL.

Well, thanks to Tom for telling me how to make a simple makeshift tester. Just use a bulb and some wire.

Here is my DIY tester. Just used some old speaker wire and a turn signal bulb I had lying around.
http://thumbnails83.imagebam.com/208...8208282180.jpg

Connected one end to the ground connector in the engine bay.
http://thumbnails50.imagebam.com/208...3208282183.jpg

Testing to make sure my tester works using the positive cable for power.
http://thumbnails81.imagebam.com/208...b208282198.jpg

So I first tested the red/white wire Tom thought was the one I was looking for. Guess what, he was correct. :D Thanks Tom!
http://thumbnails84.imagebam.com/208...5208282210.jpg http://thumbnails66.imagebam.com/208...8208282803.jpg

Awesome! I was looking for this a few months back.

Lol, awesome. I don't know why I didn't recommend that. I use this light bulb method in construction all the time.

You're welcome...But you still need to pay me tho....:rofl:

LOL. Because you not crazy guy like me.:rofl:

Thanks for the link. Others might use that route instead as an alternative.