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Aftermarket light problem

891 views 13 replies 6 participants last post by  tbbucanrs 
#1 ·
Here is my problem. I have two sets of lights that are not working. I have them both hooked thru two separate 4 pin relays to two separate 3 pin switches. The fused power wire from the battery goes to the 30 pin on the relay, the ground goes to 85, the light wire to the 87 and the switch wire to the 86. For some reason I am not getting any power thru the 86 (switch) wire. If I go straight from the battery positive to the switch (bypassing the switch wire) the lights work. I have tested the relay and fuses and they work. One set of lights didn't work last time I went out so I took it apart now both don't work. I am tearing my hair out because this is how I had it hooked up before and they worked.:confused:
 
#6 ·
It sounds as if you have no switch power to pull in the relay.

One side of the switch should have power, even with switch in off position.

Both sides should have power with the switch in the on position.
 
#8 ·
The switch controls the relay, the relay controls the lights.

If you are not getting power to and from the switch, then the relay is not going to energize to provide power to the lights.
 
#9 ·
Where did you pick up power for the line side of your switch? Is that wire only hot when the ignition is "ON"? Just a thought. Wiring gremlins can be a nightmare. Good Luck!
 
#10 ·
It does sound like the switch portion is hooked up incorrect. You need 12v to the switch. Then the other terminal of the switch will get wired to terminal 86 of the relay.

Check that you have 12v at the switch with the key in the appropriate position. Then check the other terminal on the switch. It should have 0v in off position and 12v in the on position.

If that checks out than check to make sure you are getting 12v at terminal 86 on the relay with the switch and key on.

A simple test light or multi meter and a simple diagram that you can look up online will help you a lot. Just trace the 12v from the source and follow all the way to the lights. Try looking up automotive relay wiring diagram and you will get a bunch of good info.
 
#11 ·
It is good practice and common for the power to the switch to be fused. This can be directly from the battery, the fuse block, or even a tap into another circuit (i.e. lighter socket). The current required for a switch to energize a relay is very small, so it could be using the same power as the lights to be driven or from a totally separate source.

Like many of us have said, trace back from the switch.
 
#14 ·
Thanks guys. I got it. I forgot I had the lights wired to my fuse box. Had a connection break on one set, then as I was fixing it I must of blown the fuse. Better get checked for old-timers.
 
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