Wiring lights q's

[YukonRob]

I'm in the 'paper stage' of a similar project. I've elected to switch the negative leg inside the cab rather than the positive, that way if there is a short in the cab all that happens is the lights turn on instead of a possible fire.

 

[2500ak]

I'm in the 'paper stage' of a similar project. I've elected to switch the negative leg inside the cab rather than the positive, that way if there is a short in the cab all that happens is the lights turn on instead of a possible fire.

With a relay though right? It shouldn't actually matter as long as you're using a relay, the low power side of a relay with small gauge cable almost doesn't even need to be fused because, as you said, all that will happen if it shorts is the lights will come on.

Now, I don't think you are, but if you're talking about running the wires + battery -> red lead lights -> cab switch -> ground

That can still definitely cause a fire. Also wouldn't be as bright, and the switch would still get very hot.

With a relay there isn't any difference in running + to 85 terminal and 86 to ground or vice versa. Just as long as there is a complete circuit there the relay will close.

 

[YukonRob]

With a relay though right?

Yes, via a relay. I have a drawing at work and will post it up. I'm very much the novice and will appreciate advice and tips.

 

[YukonRob]

Here is how I am attempting to accomplish something similar:

 

[2500ak]

Here is how I am attempting to accomplish something similar:

I like the idea of the foot switch for the driving lights, like the old school cars and trucks had for the highbeams. A little unnecessary, but very cool.

 

[mosupernak]

I agree. Footswitch would be cool too bad I already have my switches...

 

[G100]

In my opinion the foot switch is a must. When driving on dark highway roads especially in mexico, its nice to be able to turn your "super lights" off and on quickly for on-coming traffic. on dark windy mountian roads its not always easy or safe to take you hand off the wheel and look down to hit the switch. On my truck my dash switch allowed the foot switch to work. I got mine from napa for i think less then $10, it was off some old chrysler or something.

 

[2500ak]

I liked the foot-switch on my 86 ram, but that had a 727 automatic.

On my current project truck, which has a 4-speed, (I think it's a Borg Warner T18) if I'm doing fancy footwork trying to locate the blasted thing between taking the clutch out and putting it back in again it never fails, it just vanishes and I end up stomping the floor (which has holes in it incidentally) in vain.

I prefer switches on and around the steering column. Pull switches are usually what I end up using.

 

[mosupernak]

There might be a foot switch in my future...

For now I'm just finishing up the project. Lights are all mounted just running all the wires now. Should be done by the end of the week. (knock on wood

I'll just make another thread for the pictures and rack build. But will be moving temperarly to Florida, so it may be a couple weeks.

Thanks for all the help guys!