datsunscott

Need help with wiring and illumination on a Subaru radio in a regular neg ground vehicle. I don't think this is discussed anywhere and I cannot find it in any threads. I am such a fan of my Outback that I researched what I think is the best radio possible- a Subaru AM/FM/Cassette/Weatherband head unit with the 6 disc changer. Adding a ipod hack for an Ipod connection gives me the best of all worlds including Weatherband! :headbang:I want to put one in my camper van. Here is my problem/question: If I am installing the Subaru radio in another vehicle everything seems to be straightforward except the dimmer circuit for the lighting. Most vehicles use a variable voltage positive with a negative ground for guage illumination......... But Subaru is using a 12v+ on the positive side and a variable positive as the grounding circuit for illumination. So: 1. If I connect up the 12v illumination (+ orange) hot to the gauge lighting in the car, and the illumination (- orange/white) to a ground will the radio lighting work correctly? It seems it might..... 2. BUT! --Are there common circuits in the radio that if I hook it up that way will short circuit something in the radio? I know sometimes there are common hots and grounds in radios and I don't want to damage the camper or Subaru radio.