Whenever you are driving at night, you need adequate lighting so that you can clearly see what is in front of your car. For drivers who frequently find themselves driving at night, the vehicle must be well lit. That is where auxiliary lights come in.
Following the right instructions makes the process of installing auxiliary lights very straightforward. You will need the right sizes in terms of amperage that will give the total load required. A wiring diagram will come in handy when connecting the wires. A relay kit is vital to provide improved light output.
This article explains the right procedure for installing auxiliary lights on a truck.
How to Wire Auxiliary Lights on a Truck
Installing off-road lights can be a straightforward process with the right instructions. The most important thing to take note of is to assess your vehicle and its electrical load to determine the specific gauge and amperage well suited for the task.
Failure to pay attention to these key details, your auxiliary lights can start from intense illumination to a charred connection in no time.
The right procedure to install auxiliary lights significantly depends on the model of your vehicle, the preferred installation method, and the choice of lighting. However, no need to worry. This article outlines a general procedure that can get you started.
Installing Auxiliary Lights That Turn on With Your High Beams
The first step is to ensure that the electrical system and alternator have sufficient bandwidth to power the additional accessories. If you have any doubts, it is advisable to make the calculations to determine the output amperage and total load so that you are on the safe side.
Once everything adds up, go ahead and disconnect the battery. It is important to use a wiring diagram to know what goes where when connecting the high beam switch to your headlights.
You can start by removing the harness that leads to the headlight housing and then move the test light probe to each of the pins until power is found (the high beams switch should be turned on). It is advisable to use a relay kit as it not only improves light output but is also safer.
The lights are then mounted on the chosen location. The final tightening should be done when you have finished all the wiring. Also, it is advisable to leave the lights loose to make it easy for any troubleshooting and manipulation where necessary.
Afterward, the relay is then mounted in the engine compartment close to the battery so you can neatly extend the wires.
The lights should be aimed just slightly above the low beams at approximately 25ft. At this point, you can tighten the mounting hardware. Once everything is cleaned, secure the new wires to the existing harness under the hood.
What Are Auxiliary Lights on a Truck?
Basically, auxiliary lights on a truck are put in place for auxiliary lighting. These lights should be used to improve a driver’s visibility at night and during inclement weather. These are not intended for headlight purposes, but rather to provide a considerably long-range illumination ahead of the vehicle so that the driver can easily see distant objects.
Usually, the auxiliary lights are mounted above the vehicle bumper, on the vehicle roof, or on its grill. They work to supplement the high beam of the standard headlamp system. They should not be used as the main source of light or with the low beam of a standard headlamp system.
How to Properly Wire Additional Reverse Lights
Additional reverse lights are available in a variety of styles. You can mount them below or above the bumper or flush-mounted to the bodywork. The lights are usually supplied with wiring connectors, screws, and securing bolts.
On some cars, you may notice that the wiring for the reverse lights is already in place. If that is the case, you will only need to purchase and fit the gearbox switch, and then fix the light units before connecting them with the existing wiring.
During the wiring process, you should first disconnect the battery. A wire is then run from the ignition-controlled feed to either one of the gearbox switch terminals. From here, you can fit an in-line fuse. The wire is then run from the vacant switch terminal, through the car under the carpets, to the rear near the reversing lights.
Why Should You Use Led Light Bars for Auxiliary Lighting?
LED light bars are recommended as they come with numerous benefits. For one, LEDs cut non-compliance risks so you are always good to go. Moreover, LEDs are energy-saving and environment-friendly making them a popular choice among many for their efficiency. LED light bars also ensure that you can see clearly at night or dusk.
Do You Need a Relay for Auxiliary Lights?
It is possible to wire a light bar with a relay unless you have some power requirements. However, a relay comes with advantages that make it necessary when wiring auxiliary lights. Moreover, when you are not sure whether the fuses, switches, and wiring have the right size for the amperage, it is best to use a relay. It ensures that nothing goes wrong.
How Many Amps Before You Need a Relay?
Often, the circuits that carry less than 20 amps can be directly switched. When you get to 30-40 amps, these can be directly switched but will be controlled by relays. Any amperage that is above 40amps should be on a relay.
FAQs
Final Words
One of the best modifications you can make in your car to boost visibility and safety when off-roading is adding auxiliary lights.
However, doing so with improper wiring is likely to cause significant damage to your electrical system and leave you in the dark when you need light most. Generally, it is important to ensure you use large enough wires, fuses, and switches for the load required.
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