Toggle Switches

johnny010 · May 13th, 2007, 02:43 PM

I have a bunch of off road driving lamps. I have used the toggle switches from Wal-Mart but they always seem to melt out after a few hours of use. Autozone has toggle switches for $10 each, and since I need about 6 of them, that is out of the question.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks,

JM

Boloiii · May 13th, 2007, 05:07 PM

You need to put a relay in. Talk to your auto store and they should be able to set you up.

With a relay, the switch only turns on the relay and then the relay handles the current for the lights. The switch only sees a very small current for the relay solenoid.

johnny010 · May 13th, 2007, 05:36 PM

Great, I just found that same information by browsing google.

What I have yet to find is what SIZE relay. Surely any relay won't work. I am going to run two small fog lamps (55w each), and two driving lamps (100w H3 bulbs each).

Also how do you wire it in?

KayoK · May 13th, 2007, 05:50 PM

Quote:

Great, I just found that same information by browsing google.

What I have yet to find is what SIZE relay. Surely any relay won't work. I am going to run two small fog lamps (55w each), and two driving lamps (100w H3 bulbs each).

Also how do you wire it in?[/b][/b]

The relay's will come with instruction often. If not there are only 4-5 pins on them and your auto store should be able to guide you in the right direction. They are a must have. Remember if you are going to get them wet, you will need to dielectric grease on the connections to help prevent them from crossing pins.

Boloiii · May 13th, 2007, 08:48 PM

To find the amperage rating needed on the relay, add up the total watts of the bulbs it will run and divide by 12 volts and you have the amperage load for the relay(theoretical). In your case, you would be 28.8 amps.

johnny010 · May 14th, 2007, 03:07 PM

Since I am running two sets of lights, shouldn't I just add 100 + 100 /12 and then 55 + 55 /12, run two separate relays? Sounds right to me. I go the lights hooked up last night (1st set - and they worked well, switch didn't get hot either).

Boloiii · May 14th, 2007, 04:59 PM

If you want to run them separately, that is exactly what you need to do.