3 replies to this topic

[day101]

Right i know there is a spare ignition wire from the head unit. but i want to use both but would it be ok using the gauge and the cig lighter of the same wire or is it got much load

[Tomf]

I wouldnt think so, but i guess it depends how much current you will be drawing through the cig lighter.

[Bungle]

volt meter is easy

switched live

earth

lighting feed from pannel lights

cigy lighter i would advise taking a fused wire from the solenoid

[dklawson]

I certainly don't know about your local safety laws and how adding the lighter would be covered by them. So, take my suggestions with a grain of salt and consult the local rules.

Put your own inline fuse to the hot lead of the lighter. The earth connection is simple, just remember to use a good bare metal point on the car's chassis. Star washers under any screws help.

The hot lead is subject to debate. A number of the newer cars I've purchased have the lighter circuits switched off when the key is out of the ignition. You may want this, I do not. I like having a continuous live feed for the cigarette lighter so I can use it for accessories without having to leave the car powered up. You need to decide which you prefer, what meets your local codes, then find the appropriate points on your wiring harness to tap into (or what fuses to connect to). I still encourage you to put your own inline fuse on the hot lead of the lighter. My preference is to limit that circuit to 5 amps but it really depends on the gauge of the wire you use and what accessories you're planning on using.

The volt gauge is wired exactly as described in the posts above.