Switch branch - aux lights

[zenwhipper]

Folks, in very general terms - I think the switch branch of typical relay circuit setup used to trigger aux lighting can be lighter gauge wire and you can use a smaller rated switch (amps) right? Conversely, its the lights branch from the battery that needs the higher capacity aspects - true? Anyway, I've seen some nice rocker switches that I can put in my dash, that are quite small and unobtrusive... but typically have a 3 or 5 amp rating. Will these work?

Grazi

Scott

 

[SkooterG]

Yes, the switching side of the relay requires only light gauge wiring. Very little current going through there (depending what you hook it up to). All it's doing is activating the switch. Depending on what you are hooking up and whether it's a high power using item, you may need heavier gauge wiring on the other side of things.

 

[SockMonkey]

Folks, in very general terms - I think the switch branch of typical relay circuit setup used to trigger aux lighting can be lighter gauge wire and you can use a smaller rated switch (amps) right? Conversely, its the lights branch from the battery that needs the higher capacity aspects - true? Anyway, I've seen some nice rocker switches that I can put in my dash, that are quite small and unobtrusive... but typically have a 3 or 5 amp rating. Will these work?
Grazi

Scott

Yes, stranded 20 gauge automotive grade wire will work fine for the switch leg. A 5 amp rated switch is perfect.

 

[zenwhipper]

The switch branch runs from the fuse block (switched power on mine) to the relay as shown below.

So, based on the comments I should be OK with a 'smallish' switch.

Thanks Mates

Scott

 

[SockMonkey]

The switch branch runs from the fuse block (switched power on mine) to the relay as shown below.

So, based on the comments I should be OK with a 'smallish' switch.

Thanks Mates

Scott

Yep! It won't be a problem. BTW: Did you consider an Autoswitch instead of cutting holes on your panels to mount a toggel switch (which incidentally had better be weather proof)? If you're not familiar with an Autoswitch, it ties into and uses your bike's highbeam circuit to turn your auxiliary lights on or off.

 

[kulwen]

Yep! It won't be a problem. BTW: Did you consider an Autoswitch instead of cutting holes on your panels to mount a toggel switch (which incidentally had better be weather proof)? If you're not familiar with an Autoswitch, it ties into and uses your bike's highbeam circuit to turn your auxiliary lights on or off.

+1

I use a autoswitch and love it!!!!

 

[doctorJ]

Yep! It won't be a problem. BTW: Did you consider an Autoswitch instead of cutting holes on your panels to mount a toggel switch (which incidentally had better be weather proof)? If you're not familiar with an Autoswitch, it ties into and uses your bike's highbeam circuit to turn your auxiliary lights on or off.

+1

I use a autoswitch and love it!!!!

John T, what color is the high beam wire. I'm just now hooking up an autoswitch and figure it may be easier to ask than to search.

doctorj

 

[0Face]

Check this thread Clicky

If I do say so myself... :lol: