Re: [DML] Re: Headlight switch repairs

[Jake Kamphoefner <jakekamp@xxxxxxx>]

Just a note that putting a relay in sequence for the perimeter lights (as I have), protects the light switch from melting.  However, this doesn't prevent the *relay socket* from melting.  You are just moving the problem to a less-expensive place.  The heavy current will still run through the wiring, but the relay will isolate the switch from damage.  

After running the relay for about 60,000 miles, I had the relay socket get a little hot and begin to malfunction.  The relay worked as designed in that the original switch was left completely unharmed, but I still had a minor melt.

The bottom line is: the stock setup is the weakest.  The relay works fine to protect the switch if you are insistent about the LMS being tactilely the same.  But in my opinion, the most elegant solution available today is the switch from the DMC vendors.

Jake Kamphoefner
1063




________________________________
From: David Teitelbaum <jtrealty@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Saturday, May 30, 2009 9:33:46 AM
Subject: [DML] Re: Headlight switch repairs





Without a wiring diagram of the "switch saver" I can't confirm exactly what it will do. From the name of it you would think it sets up the switch to control relays which carry the loads and there are current limiting devices to protect the switch in case something goes wrong.
The switch can still wear out mechanically just from use.
David Teitelbaum
vin 10757

--- In dmcnews@yahoogroups .com, "Justin Mettee" <jamettee@.. .> wrote:
>
> David, 
> I've got sidemarker LEDs, & changed the bulb inside the switch to LED, tail lights are LEDs. Also going to change all the instrument cluster lighting to LEDs. Front running lights/directionals are still bulbs. Assuming ALL of these run power through the switch, it sounds like the load decrease is good, but still highly recommended to replace with a switch saver. Can you confirm this?
> 
> Justin Mettee
> 
> --- In dmcnews@yahoogroups .com, "David Teitelbaum" <jtrealty@> wrote:
> >
> > Using relays will reduce the current through the switch reducing the heat and helping the switch last a lot longer. Changing over to L.E.D.'s for the marker lights will also help a lot. 
> > David Teitelbaum
> > vin 10757
> > 
> >
>




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