Hardwire ESCORT 8500 x50 using SMART hardwire kit

[TheReflex79]

I've tried searching, but I really wasn't able to find an answer on how to hardwire my ESCORT 8500 x50 into my '98 A4. I have done a basic hardwire in to my '02 Golf...but I just want to make sure what needs to be done before I jump into it. I am going to be using the ESCORT hardwire kit with the smart button. I have a basic I idea of how to run the wires and where to mount the ground to.

I am just curious what other people have done with hardwiring this radar detector. Such as what is a spot in the fuse box that is 'switched' that I can wire the power into...and where people mount their SMART button.

Looking to make this a nice clean install so I can have this ready before Waterfest. I'm just getting tired of using the SMART cord. Depending if anyone has up with a good way, or place to mount the SMART button depends if I use it. Thanks in advance!

[mike-2ptzero]

Your best spot for switched key power is located just next to the fuse box under the dash on the driverside(just left of the clutch pedal). You will see a row of bolts/nuts, the one to the very right is switched while next few to its left are 12 volt all the time.

[t1demont1]

whats this smart button do?

[TheReflex79]

Do you know any of them that are directly in the fuse box? I'd rather not mess around with any else, especially after I read some of the posts that people had using some of those blocks under the dash, like 75x.

[TheReflex79]

Product Description

From the Manufacturer
The direct wire SmartCord accessory is a unique power cord with a power-on indicator, an alert LED lamp that warns you of radar and laser, and a convenient mute button. Users wire the cord directly into the vehicle fuse panel, and then mount the display module within arm's reach. It's the perfect addition for any driver who might have trouble reaching the detector's mute button on the windshield. The SmartCord also features a dark mode for discreet night driving, so other drivers won't know you have a detector. The direct wire SmartCord is compatible with contemporary Escort Passport 8500 X50, Solo S2, and Passport 7500S models, along with earlier Passport 8500, 7500, and 6800 detectors.

[t1demont1]

Just wire into the 75x. Thats the way everyone, well most everyone, wires things up in our cars. Its nice and simple, and its only on when the car is on.

[mike-2ptzero]

Do you know any of them that are directly in the fuse box? I'd rather not mess around with any else, especially after I read some of the posts that people had using some of those blocks under the dash, like 75x.

It is all powered by the same thing, going to 75x is just easier to deal with then going to the fuse box since the correct way to go there is to tap onto the actual wire not shove it into the fuse holder along with the fuse.

[generik777]

75X is the way to go. I have my V-1 hooked up that way and all is good. Here are some pics of what you are looking for if that's how you decide to do it.

75X Terminal


Ground Terminal

[biketsai]

I used the same kit. I just tapped it to a wire coming out of the fuse box.

[JaVa]

you can use a fuse tap on the fuel pump, did that for a couple years then used the 75X.

[TheReflex79]

I guess I might end up tapping into 75x, or check out the fuse panel again to see in I can find a switched fuse...it's just easier tapping into the fuse box seeing the kit I use already has a spade that fits right in the box.

[mike-2ptzero]

You might be able to just use the t-tap on the wire coming from the 75x post. The post on the other end is also key power only and is small enough for the blue t-tap.