Lighting Issues
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2004
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From: Michigan
Lighting Issues
I recently attempted to put some extra lights on my 87 F-150 that I have had for some time. Unfortunately I have the same problem that I had years ago and that is why I stopped using them. I can not seem to stop the wiring from frying. The last one that I used was 12ga and it lasted a little while then smoked itself. Nasty smell by the way. I am also going through switches. I have tried using a relay without much luck, might not be the right size. Any help would be apreciated since I really like the amound of light that these give off. Just to help they are 300 watt 55 amp lights and I have 4 of them.
Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 2,665
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From: B/CS, Texas!!
So that's 1200 watts of pure lighting? The alternator will fry, unless you have a huge one.
12ga is too small....use 8ga. You will need huge relays, I've never seen bigger than 30AMP (12v). If you run it straight thru a switch, it will melt.
12ga is too small....use 8ga. You will need huge relays, I've never seen bigger than 30AMP (12v). If you run it straight thru a switch, it will melt.
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,557
Likes: 44
From: Concord, NC
Bosch makes a 75 amp relay, that might be a possibility for you to try. That's a lot of wattage, and I agree that it'll strain the alternator. How do you have them wired presently? Are they wired individually, or are you powering all four with one 12 ga. wire? Also be sure the wiring is fused and that the ground wire is equally as large as the power wire and has a solid connection to ground.
75A relay: http://order.waytekwire.com/IMAGES/M...og/217_053.pdf
The rest of the catalog: http://www.waytekwire.com/CatPDF.htm
Waytek is a good company to deal with for wiring needs, as well as delcity.net
75A relay: http://order.waytekwire.com/IMAGES/M...og/217_053.pdf
The rest of the catalog: http://www.waytekwire.com/CatPDF.htm
Waytek is a good company to deal with for wiring needs, as well as delcity.net
Last edited by EPNCSU2006; Jul 17, 2005 at 07:45 AM.
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 38
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From: Michigan
Thanks for the info. I have burned up a few switches in my time. I usually do not have a problem with the alternator since the wiring gives out long before that. Anyone ever tried to run dual alternators with a switched clutch to engage the second one? Anyway i will try the places suggested. I might be able to find out what plane these came out of an see what they are using for wiring and relays. Yes...before you ask they are aircraft landing lights. If you're gonna go...go BIG!
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