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should sidelights go through a relay?
saigonij - 4/9/07 at 05:46 PM

been reading the SVa thread about the headlights diming when the hazards are flashing...

it mentioned that most looms done use a relay for the side lights, and the sierra does...

this is the case with my RapidLoom too. Should the sidelights go through a relay?

daviep - 4/9/07 at 05:56 PM

All depends if the switch gear (and the wiring) are rated to handle the current without a relay. Side lights should draw less than 2amps, maybe a touch more if you have a lot of instrument lighting.

RazMan - 4/9/07 at 06:05 PM

Usually not neccessary as current consumption is low.

BenB - 4/9/07 at 09:05 PM

Sidelights shouldn't be a problem. But then it depends very much on the spec of the switch being used.

designer - 5/9/07 at 08:01 AM

As with all electrics, use a good quality switch and no relays will be required.

omega 24 v6 - 5/9/07 at 08:40 AM

quote:

As with all electrics, use a good quality switch and no relays will be required.


This is not the case as the limiting factor for any switch is the current(load) regardless of the quality or brand name. If your using the sierra column swithches your sidelights should be fine without a relay as already said. Total load for 2 front 2 rear 1 no plate and say 6 gauge backlights will be around about 40 watts which is 3.5amps ish.

[Edited on 5/9/07 by omega 24 v6]

Peteff - 5/9/07 at 10:14 AM

Which model? Mine have all been direct switched through the right switch for the sidelights.