Electrical question

[Millerad1651]

I'm not too savvy when it comes to electrical. So I need some help with this. I want to ad some back up lights since the stock ones are garbage. I have found the lights I want, but do not know which way to wire them. I only want them to come on when I put it in reverse. So, would I be ok just tapping into the stock wiring for back up lights, or should I run new wiring from the battery? I wouldn't think that these would draw too much, but I also don't want to overload the stock wiring. Thanks.

Amazon.com: (2) White 2" Round 9 LED Mini Reverse Backup Lights: Automotive

 

[Dezert4Runner]

I would use a relay. You'd hook up a power wire straight from the battery to the relay, then your switched signal would be your stock reverse light wire that would activate the lights. That way you're not double dipping from the factory power.

Here's how relays are wired:

You can buy one from Radio Shack, Frys, etc.

 

[Millerad1651]

So do I tap into the stock reverse wires for the switched signal wire? Does that send the signal to the relay for the 2 new lights? I understand everything else, just want to clarify. Thanks by the way...

 

[FRT]

Yes, you would tap into the +12v line of the existing lights for the switched signal wire. It "energizes" the relay which sends power from the battery to the lights.

 

[Singtoe]

Desret4runner and FRT have posted excellent responces.


But this is the more scientifically correct way to go backwards.

 

[Millerad1651]

But if I use your diagram I'll always have to be going 88mph! Thanks for the responses guys, I appreciate the help.

 

[FRT]

But if I use your diagram I'll always have to be going 88mph! Thanks for the responses guys, I appreciate the help.

LOL.


No problem. Good luck with the project. :hatsoff: