Re: wiring a relay switch


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Posted by David Sherman on Sunday, November 25, 2007 at 00:50:47 :

In Reply to: Re: wiring a relay switch posted by APB in Frigid NY on Saturday, November 24, 2007 at 23:24:22 :

You're right, but headlights (and bright backup lights) seem to be right on the dividing line of how much load the switch can carry. Some vehicles have headlight relays (one for high beam and one for low bean) but some just let the switch carry all the current. Headlights want 12 gage wiring, which is kind of stiff to route around behind the dashboard, especially on a modern vehicle where it's already packed full, and 15 amps, which is what they draw, is more than ordinary toggle switches can handle without burning out in short order (been there, done that, too).

In Jerry's case, with the need to control it with the reverse switch, the relay's necessary, but even if he just wanted to put a toggle switch on the dashboard, a relay wouldn't be a bad idea at all. I'm aware that many automotive relays are specified as the cheapest thing that will just barely do the job, but when you're installing it yourself, you can pick a beefier industrial one with a cool-running coil and heavy silver contacts. One thing NOT to use is a starter relay. They're not meant for continuous duty, and will overheat quickly.



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