Superjatt

iTrader: (1)

Hello All
For those people with gauges set up in there cars. Where are you guys getting the constant 12v source and switched 12v. I know the Cig Lighter works but how many wires can you directly pull from there and be safe.
People have said to use the fuse box but how does that work?

turbodremz

iTrader: (18)

I have run 2 leads for gauges and one for the remote switch on an amp for my subs off the cig lighter with no problem..but thats just me. To stay safe, I would say 2 or less.

Now that I am rewiring a few things for my swap, Im running an independent 12v line off the battery to a separate fuse block with 4 outputs to keep things safe.

Superjatt

iTrader: (1)

So if you have a wire coming from a fuse box its automatically a "switched" wire?

turbodremz

iTrader: (18)

in theory, yes. 90% of cars are wired that way, but some older cars I have seen hot source wires going through a fuse box.

But depending on how many gauges your running, split them between the 12v switched power for the audio headunit, and the cig lighter and you will be fine.

Superjatt

iTrader: (1)

so when i look at my fuse box. I find a "empty space"
Put a lead to the empty space and that will by my switched 12v. I can use that for the Continuous 12v as well?

turbodremz

iTrader: (18)

An empty spot shouldn't have an incoming power source, so you would have to install it with a relay inline for it to be switched. I would just go to an auto parts store and get a small fuse block and relay and do it that way.

cbrasian

worse case do a toggle switch setup if you want or via the radio cig or make a 12 switch with a relay just make sure you put a fuse or a fuseable link in between somewhere so you don't nuke your wires and start a fire or better yet take it to a shop or someone who has a L1 certification and knows what they are doing

Superjatt

iTrader: (1)

I usually know how to setup stuff like this but never really got the offical theory behind it. People with certificates dont really HAVE to know what there talking about.