I recently purchased a 2004 Ford Ranger XLT 4.0 V6 and I have been trying to add some modifications while I wait to get my registration in the mail (have been waiting for about 3 weeks at this point) and I am trying to figure out how I can wire a backup camera I purchased. I am trying to wire the backup camera to keep it on at all times, from what I have read I need to wire it to the running lights, radio, etc. to keep it on when I'm not backing up. I'm in no way experienced with working with cars or trucks so please pardon my ignorance, it's amateur hour over here. Here are my questions:

1) Where can I run a wire from the cab to the back of the truck? One option I see is I could run the wire from underneath the front of the truck where it's connected to the back by running it along the frame underneath... there must be a better way than this? I imagine there might be a grommet somewhere in the back of the cab where I could run the wires through.

2) Which power source would be best/easiest to wire the camera to for a constant source of power?

Also if anyone has wiring diagrams for dummies that they would be willing to share I would be very appreciative. I have yet to find something that is specific to my ranger. I'd like to get a better understanding of it for future applications such as adding lights, etc.

Thanks for the help!

 

Welcome to the forum

2004 was the first year for the SJB(smart junction box) and the HEC(hybrid electronic cluster) digital dash, so wiring diagrams will need to be 2004 to 2011 to make any sense, just FYI

SJB is behind passenger kick panel, cab fuse box is part of the SJB, SJB is the "Body computer"

You don't want "full time" 12volts or battery will go dead when you are away from vehicle, you want "Key ON" 12volt so camera is active only when key is on

You want one of these: 2004 Ford Ranger Wiring Diagram Manual Original

Ford sends out a Shop Manual set for every model it makes, every year, to all its Dealers, this Wiring Diagrams book is part of that set, and is often sold separately
It used to be called the EVTM(electrical and vacuum troubleshooting manual), but changed to "Wiring Diagrams" in 2001 I believe
These are what the Ford mechanics use to trace wires and find connectors in a vehicle, they are very detailed and specific for each model

You only want the 2004 Ford Ranger one, it covers all sub-model Rangers and options available that in that year, 2003 wouldn't work at all, 2005 might be "close", but not worthwhile to spend money on
Often found on ebay, people buy them and then sell them when they sell the vehicle, or no longer have it


The cab fuse box will be the most likely place to high-jack a 12v key on circuit
Google: fuse taps

These can be used to add a circuit using a fuse slot, original fuse is still used but you add another fuse for YOUR added circuit as well

Look under glove box close to the edge(kick panel) there are often 1 or 2 grommeted holes, 1 for sure for 2 vacuum hoses, might be able to get a wire out there

Get the 2004 book to see about other possible routes for the wire

 

Like Ron said better run your dashcam with ignition switch by taping power from cabin fuse box with fuse tap/piggy back fuse, unless your are equipt with aux battery.
you can look from body mounting manual which fuse you can tap it or check with light tester.
Running cable from cabin to the back there is rubber gormet behind the back seat. Just pockit with wire and run your cable through.
what the cable for?
thanks

 

There may be a grommet there on your T-6 Ranger, but not on the North American version of the Ranger.

 

it mean American version more watertight then us,
he must run cable underthe body with sleeve to protect it trough gormmet in front cabin to the back tube.