Installing hour meter, question regarding electrical

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Jan 23, 2016 | 11:06 AM

timbersteel

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Logistics Pro

Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Mexico, Missouri

Installing hour meter, question regarding electrical

Hey folks,

I'm gonna install an hour meter in the cab so I can track hours for maintenance, ie. Oil changes, air filter, plugs, etc.

What is the best way to install the wire for which is only directly in line for "HOT in RUN" and not just "HOT in START"?

I'm not looking to tear the dash apart, but maybe something I can splice and solder a wire in. Just about anything I can think of is also tied in "HOT in START"

Thanks again!

Jan 23, 2016 | 11:15 AM

Bird-Dog 250

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Joined: Sep 2015

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From: Otto, NC

I never saw one installed in anything but aircraft. Maintenance is by the hour in them. I do it the old fashion way by miles or date installed. Sorry not to be of much help. I'm sure someone in here can get you set up...

Jan 23, 2016 | 11:26 AM

timbersteel

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Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Mexico, Missouri

I usually do all by date and miles. I use a marker or dremel to scribe when replaced and when needs to be replaced.

Unfortunately, I do a lot of idling to, and a lot more in winter. I read about Aircraft with hour meters and most of the new Ford Diesels have them now, and I would like to have the hours also for all sorts of record keeping.

Thanks again.

Jan 23, 2016 | 11:26 AM

subford

Fleet Owner

Joined: Aug 2005

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From: Easton,Ks

Most use an oil pressure switch so the it will only run with the engine running.
Then use the ground wire of the meter to the switch and hot to the run wire at the Ignition switch.

Jan 23, 2016 | 11:33 AM

timbersteel

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From: Mexico, Missouri

Thanks For the oil sender tip. I had read about that too in other forums, I just wanted to avoid going that route.

Unfortunately, mine is disconnected. I replaced the sender years ago and finally, just removed it altogether and stuck with a mechanical oil psi gauge.

Basically, I'd have to disconnect the mechanical gauge and tee in the oil psi sender.

That will have to wait for some time. Snow's on the ground and I'm to warm to want to stay out in the cold.

Any other ideas would be welcomed!
Thanks so much for the replies!

Jan 23, 2016 | 01:11 PM

mrollings53

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Joined: Oct 2014

Posts: 1,227

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From: Washington

The power wire to the radio is only hot in the run/acc positions. That should be good enough for an hour meter. You don't have to tear too deeply into the dash either.