QuestionHi Brian! I have a 2001 Chevrolet S10 Xtreme that I am trying to find a place through the firewall to run a power cable through to the battery. I have seen on some forums that a good place to try is where a clutch pedal would be if the vehicle is available in a manual transmission, and though my truck would have that option, I cannot find a place through a clutch area. I'm really needing a place closer to the passenger side anyway, but I would take any suggestions that are possible. Also, do you know how the cranks for un-powered windows come off of an S10? I need to take the interior paneling off to access the 6 1/2" speakers and replace the stocks with a better set, but don't know how to remove the stuff in my way. Thanks!
AnswerHi Rob,
When I'm running wire through the firewall in an S10, whether I'm going through the driver's side or the passenger side, I usually end up drilling a new hole. The driver's side is easier; there's not really a plug or anything at the clutch plate, but it's an open space of metal with nothing in the way. When drilling through the firewall, you'll always want to make a small pilot hole first to verify that the area is clear before you try to drill a bigger hole. The best way to make a pilot hole is to use a self-tapping screw; this will help prevent you from damaging something on the other side if you pick the wrong spot, because the screw won't go as far through the firewall as a drill bit would. Once you're sure that the hole is in the right place, you can use a step bit ("uni-bit") to make it big enough for the power wire. Make sure to place a bushing or grommet in the hole, so the sharp metal edges can't cut through the wire jacket; most amp kits include such a bushing.
On the passenger side, it's tougher. If you look low on the firewall inside the truck, just above the passenger's foot well, you'll see the grommet where the AM/FM antenna cable runs through the firewall. If the power wire is small, you might be able to share the antenna grommet; but usually I'll drill a new hole right next to it. The tough part is fishing the wire up to where you can reach it on the engine side of the firewall, because there's lots of stuff in the way. I have special wire-pulling tools that help me out here; without the tools, I don't know if I'd be able to run the wire on the passenger side. You also have to be careful, because it's very easy to for the power wire to come into contact with very hot engine components in this area; you have to route it and secure it carefully.
The window crank is held in place with a horseshoe-shaped wire clip. There's a special tool available that's made just for removing these clips; once the clip is removed, the window crank should come right off. You can find a window crank removal tool at any auto parts store for under $10.
Hope this helps!
Brian
