Lights wiring

[KG6BWS]

I've got a couple of questions about wiring for my lights. I've got 4 hella 500's I'm putting on the roof and I'm trying to decide whether or not to stay with 2 relays (1 per pair like the installation manual says) or 1 relay for all 4.

If my calculations are correct (4 55 watt bulbs = 19amps), then using 10ga wire, instead of the 12ga wiring harness that comes with the lights, and a 40amp relay should be more than adequate to power all 4 lights and simplify my wiring.

Any comments from those in the know??

 

[adrenaline503]

Or you can fire 2 relays with one switch. As long as each relay has its own fuse it wont matter. That way if you lose a relay you will still have 1/2 your lights.

 

[KG6BWS]

Or you can fire 2 relays with one switch. As long as each relay has its own fuse it wont matter. That way if you lose a relay you will still have 1/2 your lights.

I'm not too worried about a relay going bad, I carry extras. I use to have the lights wired with 2 relays into 1 switch, but it took 2 sets of wiring to get there. Basically I'm trying to clean up the wiring (i.e. get rid of a few). Thanks though.

 

[adrenaline503]

In that case your math looks good and one 40Amp relay should work.

 

[KG6BWS]

In that case your math looks good and one 40Amp relay should work.

Ok. Wanted a second opinion. If I'm reading the wire gauge charts right, then 10ga should hold that amperage just fine.

Now to finish wiring them up.....

.....and check that the fire extinguisher is in good shape.....

Electrical guru I am not....