PDA

View Full Version : Switch Panel Questions

Redneck Rebel
01-05-2008, 05:34 AM
I have been looking at different options as far as switches for offroad lights go and I found several switch panels that would look more like they were supposed to be there and make for a clean install.

I was thinking something like this would fit nicely where my factory radio used to be above the HVAC Controls
http://www.discountmarinesupplies.com/21583446.jpg

Is there anything I need to be looking for as far as switches go? I have seen some where they have amp ratings ect. but I really don't know what to look for.

BTW: There seem to be many nice looking switch panels on Marine/Boating 12 volt supply websites. http://www.discountmarinesupplies.com/Switch_Panels-HELLA_COMPACT_SWITCH_PANELS.html
BHB
01-05-2008, 08:50 AM
You would run lights through relays(I hope!), so you would not really have to worry about amperage ratings for the switches, since the switch is triggering the relay.
A relay only takes about 500ma, to 1 amp to trigger.
Redneck Rebel
01-05-2008, 05:24 PM
Oh OK thanks Boarshead. I'm not exactly the smartest when it somes to wiring and such.
So basically I could use a switch panel like that and just wire everything up the way it would be in the instructions but use one of those switches instead of the rocker switch that most light sets come with?
BHB
01-05-2008, 07:41 PM
You got it. if you have any more questions on wiring it up, just pm me.
mulvane
01-05-2008, 07:44 PM
Personally, for lights, I thin I'd rather go with rocker switches. You can't go wrong with them. And you can get them in pretty stylish looking designs. They take up less room, and You could get 3 position for dim/high/off. Just my 2 cents.
Redneck Rebel
01-05-2008, 07:56 PM
Personally, for lights, I thin I'd rather go with rocker switches. You can't go wrong with them. And you can get them in pretty stylish looking designs. They take up less room, and You could get 3 position for dim/high/off. Just my 2 cents.

I considered that but I really would rather something like this simply because it can fill that pocket where my radio used to be. The pocket is unuseable for anything anyhow cuz stuff always falls out of it.