|
Re: Day Time Running Lights - self-install summary
Very nicely done! Thank you. This is a project that is high on my to do list. Your post will make the installation much easier. The only note or comment that I have based on the pictures is that there should be a fuse as close as possible, preferably within 6", of the "Red wire mounts to bolt on drivers side fusebox".
For those that may be reading that are electrically challenged, a fuse placed at the far end of the (red) power wire does not protect the wire itself, only the devices beyond the fuse. The reason is that the bolt appears to be the main power bus input to the fuseblock. If it is, and if the red wire shorts to ground for any reason such as vibration / abrasion, accident, pinch as a result of engine bay service, etc., the red wire will burn until in melts apart. In the process of burning, it will light up just like the element in a toaster and can burn through other wires causing massive damage. A fuse placed at the source, in this case at the bolt in the fuse block, a short anywhere beyond the fuse will blow the fuse. If there is a fuse link for the entire fuse block it may not blow in time to prevent a fire. An inline fuse holder can be purchased at any auto parts store, Wal Mart or similar, or any electronics store for about $2.00. The size of the fuse should be the same size as the fuse that protects the accessory that is being installed.
I have seen the results of accessories installed without a fuse at the source many times. Years ago I was in the back seat of a car that had a CB set (ya, it was a long time ago!) connected directly to the under dash fuse block. When we parked and started to get out the power wire got pinched in the seat hinge and instantly lit up the entire length of the power wire. It was glowing red hot and instantly filled the entire car with thick smoke. It burned the drivers hands and leg severely and burned a long stripe deeply into the seat and carpet. Fortunately, other than the drivers hands and leg, we all got out with minor injuries and smoke inhalation. If he had installed a 50 cent fuse at the fuse block the only damage would have been the 50 cent fuse. If we were still on the highway when the short happened - who knows...
|