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How to hard wire Passport 8500 X50 radar detector

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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 08:34 PM
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2008 C350
How to hard wire Passport 8500 X50 radar detector

I purchased a Passport 8500 X50 radar detector and would like to get instructions and pics on hardwiring it to my '08 C350 Sport. I had a K40 remote mounted detector in my CLK 320, but don't want to spend the extra $1K+ for another remote at this time.

I am debating about getting the direct-wire Smartcord since the unit itself can Auto-mute or mute with the button on the front of the unit. I understand that the direct-wire cord is just an RJ11 phone cord, however a local dealer told me that the manufacturer's direct-wire cord does some powering down of the 12Vs. So I'm confused, since I don't think a phone cord would be able to do any powering down.

I'd like to mount it with either the visor clip or windshield mount on the passenger side of the rearview mirror. I would also like it to auto on and off when I start or stop the engine. I am also getting one for my son for Xmas. He has an Infiniti G35 and plans to hard wire his into the rearview mirror. It is is like the C-class's with 3 buttons to sync with the garage door opener, etc.

Can anyone help? There have been a few directions about V1 hardwire, but I would like Passport and C350 specific info. Second option, if I can't find this info, is to use a car audio dealer for the install, (can the MB dealer also do this?)

Thanks for your help!

Last edited by caballo; Nov 3, 2008 at 08:36 PM.
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 09:41 PM
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2008 C350
You got to get a hard wire kit from an electronic store.
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 02:24 AM
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I realize that I need a direct wire and plan to get that from Passport. But getting that is the easy part. Any suggestions on install or does the kit you talk about come with C350 specific directions?
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 07:35 AM
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I am using this detector. I just use the visor clip on the passenger side and plug it into the lighter in the ashtray with the coiled cord. I take it down every time not in use on the parkway. I'll snap a pic next time I am in the car.
RickP
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 09:00 AM
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If you hardwire the detector be careful before you enter DC / Virginia. Radar detectors are illegal in those states and the fines are huge.
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 10:09 AM
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Originally Posted by ni2mi2
If you hardwire the detector be careful before you enter DC / Virginia. Radar detectors are illegal in those states and the fines are huge.
Does the LE there have means to detect that you are using a radar detector? Or, is it just that they pull you then see it?
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 11:16 AM
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Most LE have radar detector detectors.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radar_detector_detector

Although your new detector is probably somewhat immune, they can shoot the radar quickly at you, causing sudden braking or slight nose dive, pull you over and have a look at your car.
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 03:11 PM
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2008 C350
Originally Posted by caballo
I realize that I need a direct wire and plan to get that from Passport. But getting that is the easy part. Any suggestions on install or does the kit you talk about come with C350 specific directions?
Just remove the kick panel in the passenger seat, tap the 12 volt dc outlet in your glove box, and tuck your wires
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 03:30 PM
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Originally Posted by got_thang?
Just remove the kick panel in the passenger seat, tap the 12 volt dc outlet in your glove box, and tuck your wires
I was going to install my V1 on the windshield under the mirror. Then route the wire along the top of the windshield down the A pillar on the right side and tap the aux outlet like got_thang suggests. I barely used it in my last car so I haven't given it much serious thought.
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 03:34 PM
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Originally Posted by got_thang?
Just remove the kick panel in the passenger seat, tap the 12 volt dc outlet in your glove box, and tuck your wires
will you post a pic of which wire
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Old Nov 4, 2008 | 08:47 PM
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2008 C350
Maybe later
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Old Nov 8, 2008 | 10:25 PM
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I have my Escort mounted to the right of the drivers side A pillar with the wire running up just below the visor. I will take a pic when I get my car back.
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