Grounding add-on Fog lights

[rupren]

I've installed a set of low power fog lights under the REAR bumper of my 2003 4Runner for added light when backing up and primarily to use when I need extra light when launching/retreiving my boat at night. I'm powering direct to the positive side of the battery and using the on/off switch that came with the kit. I've double checked all the connections, etc. but as soon as I attach the power lead the in-line 15A fuse blows. The switch is grounded to the ground strap nut that runs from the negative battery post to the fender. The lights are grounded to a bolt on the factory hitch. I also tried to tap into the backup lights but then the fuse blew that controls the a/c switches and the multi-display (mileage, etc but the clock still worked.)

Question: Any idea on the best way to ground the lights and switch? I think that is my problem but open to any other suggestons/insights.

I've done this setup on other vehicles with no problems so I'm perplexed.

Thanks!

 

[Hitman]

Did your lights come with a relay?

If so, you should really be using it. If not, you should buy one and use it.

The idea of a relay is to use a low amperage circuit for your switch to control the higher amperage circuit for your lights.

 

[rupren]

No relay came with the kit. I thought you only needed a relay is wiring into the high beam or low beam circuits. I'll give it a try.

BTW-I noticed the hot wires were actually warm to the touch. Does that indicate an inadequate ground?

Thanks,

 

[Hitman]

No relay came with the kit. I thought you only needed a relay is wiring into the high beam or low beam circuits. I'll give it a try.

BTW-I noticed the hot wires were actually warm to the touch. Does that indicate an inadequate ground?

Thanks,

If you wires are warm, then you're most likely running too much juice through them..... you might want to try a larger gauge wire.

How many watts are these lights? It's pretty easy to figure out your amperage draw using Ohm's law.