accessory switch

[Color01]

I'm planning to install some extra driving lights on my bike.....I don't want to connect them to my headlight ..but I want to use a switch ... what kind of switch can I use that is not to expensive.

[Steve S]

Just a good quality 15 amp toggle switch will be fine. This can be purchased at most any auto parts store. They should have a rubber boot to screw on after the switch is mounted.

A word of caution. Be sure and use an all metal switch. Some of then that have plastic levers can be pretty cheaply made.

 

I hooked mine up on a dedicated circut, but put a relay that allows me to use the passing lamps on low beam only and then go off when I switch to high beams.

 

I also mounted my off-on switch right beside the lighter plug for those times I dont want to use them.

[KiteSquid]

I would also recommend that you use a switch that is water tight around the toggle, as it will be out in the weather.

 

Check near the boat accessories, or look around the toggle to see if there is a rubber dam, to keep the water out of the switch.

[BoomerCPO]

12V "water-resistant" switches can be found at most Boat Yards or Marine Supply Houses.

[CrazyHorse]

Make sure you use a relay when hooking up llights somene here has a diagram how to hook them up.

I would use a waterproof switch. Recent trip to Memphis had a lot of rain ruined the switch lights would turn on even if I didnt want them on.

[Gearhead]

It's best not to add any extra current draw through the key switch and other factory wiring. However, you may want the lights to go off with the key so they don't get left on. To accomplish both of these goals, use a relay. The main circuit goes right from the battery + thru a separate fuse or breaker to the relay, then to the lights. The trigger circuit goes from somewhere downstream of the key, thru your external switch, to the relay. I ran my trigger off the headlight circuit so the lights go off with the starter, just like the headlight. The trigger circuit draws very little power.

 

Jeremy