02 Montana fuse box/ aftermarket radio question

Ok so I tried tapping into that line. It worked, but for some reason it was a straight always on 12v line. It used to turn off when my car was shut off (cell charger turned off), so I don't know what changed.
Ended up blowing the fuse, and THEN I find that some derpy mofo put the wrong fuse in there anyway. Got a 20a for the turn signals(only needs 10a), and a 10a for the cig lighter circuit (requires 20a).
So after I put the right fuse where it belongs, and replaced the blown one I do have a working radio. It's not on a switched circuit, but I'm done being jerked around by this van.
Got a toggle switch, an inline fuse (just in case), and a long piece of fairly heavy gauge wire. Gonna MAKE it a d**m switched line.
Thank you all for your prompt replies, I'll post a pic or pics of the finished product probably after Christmas

Happy Holidays!
 
Since your going to work on your car again spend a few bucks when you can afford it and purchase a computer safe test light to find your switched 12 volt circuit.

http://www.harborfreight.com/computer-safe-automotive-logic-probe-98709.html

The day you forget to turn off this switch or the radio and your left stranded by a dead battery you will wish you took the time to fix your radio install properly
 
Ah harbor freight, I too frequent them for such things. I don't remember but I think I do have that model and it's worked well for me.

I have to agree with Ea as per usual. I would just wire to a line that shuts off. This is one of the reasons I love auto lights, an auto mirror, auto trans, RAP that will shut off, ect. I just get in the car and drive. The only thing like this on my car is an LED strip I wired to the battery for a work light under the hood. (it's fuse'd and switched)
 
You both are 100% correct, long term I do need to find a switched circuit. But until I can make room in my budget for a light, it will have to wait.
Here's the semi finished product. As soon as I find my drill bits, I'll be moving that switch into the pocket at the bottom of the unit. Plenty of room for it underneath
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Planned on it :) Like to show that even though I'm more than willing to redneck it if need be, I do prefer a proper looking finished product.
Already planning on bondo and some paint to patch up the hole I'll be making for the switch lol
 
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