Hard-line dash cam power issue

dcouponzzzz

Evening all,

Apologies in advance if I miss any important information, I'm far from an expert in this topic.

I've just picked up a car (mk3 2011 Focus Zetec) and have been trying for some time to install my dash-cam. I installed it in my previous car with no issues and it was all working when I unplugged it. 

When attempting to piggyback on any of the 10A-30A fuses it doesn't have power when I switch on the ignition. The first one I tried was the cigar lighter fuse (F61 in the manual below) to no avail. I'm unable to try inserting it both ways though due to obstruction (see attached images).  

The only difference I see between this and my previous car is the fuse style is smaller, but the kit comes with the appropriate adaptor. I'm aware the pins are still a different shape, but the adaptor plugs in fully. Could this still be the issue? If so how could I work around it? 

I appreciate any help at all, and as long as it fixes the issue call me any name under the sun

https://imgvehicle.com/ford/focus-iii/fuse-box

tacpot12

I think this link will be helpful: Switched and constant power fuses | Focus Fanatics Forum

dcouponzzzz

tacpot12 said:

I think this link will be helpful: Switched and constant power fuses | Focus Fanatics Forum

Thanks Tacpot12, I've skimmed it and it doesn't seem like the OP is having issues getting power, just finding a source of constant power for surveillance when the ignition is off. 

There might still be some useful details in there though so I'll go through it in detail in the daylight!

dcouponzzzz

Going to give this config a try tomorrow
https://youtu.be/lOOyY3pYFFE

mobileron

Just get onto a ford user website,someone on there will tell you which fuse number to use,also ask if its a mini piggy holder?.

dcouponzzzz

So I know it's annoying when people don't post if they found the problem... it turns out I'm just thick. I was grounding to a coated bolt that never actually touched the chassis, and after I fixed that I was plugging the power cable in to the data port.... all sorted now  

oldagetraveller1

" it turns out I'm just thick"

Join the club. I did exactly that when hardwiring my camera. I expected/assumed the bolt I was using as an earth point screwed into the bodywork - no it didn't!