[DML] Re: Headlight switch

["endotex23" <endotex23@xxxxxxxxx>]

There are several problems in the headlight circuit. One already
mentioned is the running lights are not piloted and the switch carries
the full current. You should install a relay to pilot the running
lights. This can easily be done with all wiring being accomplished in
the relay compartment.

While this will remove the load from the switch it does nothing for
short circuit protection of the headlight switch power feed. One of
the many achillies heels of the Delorean's wiring is how some of the
fusing is located far from the power source. In some cases there is no
fusing at all. For example the headlight switch feed (labled NU on the
diagram) runs from the power distribution point all the way to the
headlight switch and then back to the relay compartment where it
powers the main beam relay. This line has no fusing. The same is true
of the power feed (labeled NR) to the ignition switch. It runs all the
way to the dash and then returns to the relay compartment with no
fusing. This is fundamentally poor electrical design. Any short to
ground in these two lines will result in the wiring burning up. 

I suggest you do the following: 1) Pilot the running lights with a
relay. This will likely save you from replacement of the switch at
some point in the future. 2) Add inline fusing on both the above
mentioned lines as close to the power distribution point as possible.
You can do this by removing the back board then removing the tape from
the harness and adding inline fuse holders. You can run them back to
the fuse compartment to make them acessable. Ths will add short
circuit protection to these feeds at the source. Otherwise you run a
risk of an electrical event that will at minimum destroy the wiring
and at maximum start a fire.

There are several other issues in the car's electrical system but I'll
leave those for another time.

Greg








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