How to wire a power trailgate window to only work with the key?

[hidesertwheelin]

I currently have a manual tailgate window and have broken another handle. I want to install a power tailgate, and don't really care about being able to roll it up or down from inside. I just want to be able to use the key to do it. Can I just run the power wire to a continually hot block to accomplish this?

 

[rebelgregory]

The power to the rear window is ignition-on, not constant. That said, there's no real reason you can't run it with constant power, but no real reason to do so either.

Also, you may want to reconsider the ability to roll it up/down from inside. It's one of the main benefits of the power rear window in my opinion. I use mine a lot. Of course you could always add it later.

Last tip, many people have slow-performing rear window motors. The motor is grounded through the case to the tailgate. But grease dirt and rust make the hinges a poor conductor to the frame (ultimate ground) sometimes. It's better to give it a dedicated ground wire run back to the frame. A simple search on here will yield some pretty informative threads on the topic.

 

[frankin5]

power to the tailgate key is hot at all times.

 

[rebelgregory]

Hmmm. Yeah, you're right. I stand corrected. If your keys are in the tailgate, you'll catch hell with a keyed-on power source. Common sense wins again.

 

[dyeager535]

Also, I will add that the key switch is "prone" to failure as well, if it doesn't work, the dash switch does. But I can understand wanting to get something going now. Were it I, I'd find a donor truck and take all of the wiring. Not real complex, might as well do it all at the same time, and it will be easier. Donor truck should not be hard to find.

 

[4X4HIGH]

Also, I will add that the key switch is "prone" to failure as well, if it doesn't work, the dash switch does. But I can understand wanting to get something going now. Were it I, I'd find a donor truck and take all of the wiring. Not real complex, might as well do it all at the same time, and it will be easier. Donor truck should not be hard to find.

This right there has gotten Greg into trouble building his rig so I would watch out using that phrase.