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Adding accessories (I love making stuff) - part 1

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Old 07-03-2012, 06:23 PM
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Originally Posted by JK-Ford

I'm not knocking your work. But it doesn't really make any sence "electrically" to install control devices inside the cab to control equipment outside the cab. This only lengthens the power distribution cables and complicates the wireing.
I agree that this arrangement can make the high power wires longer and in the case of running a winch or bumper mounted lights, this would be undesirable. But I'm my case most accessories are inside or wired inside (rock lights) and even the reverse lights would need the power run all the way to the back. In this case, it shouldn't be a problem mounting the fuses and relays inside.
Old 07-03-2012, 06:29 PM
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Originally Posted by Rbzak

Here is my fuse/rely panel nothing fancy, put gets the job done. I just cut a piece of plastic of a old case I had. Then wedge it the hole under the glove box. I haven't had time to do the wiring yet. But working on it. Hope this helps.
It does help. I have a distribution block not far from from there for my sound amplifier. I could feed off that. Thanks for the idea.
Old 07-03-2012, 06:53 PM
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Originally Posted by CBrNoMore

It does help. I have a distribution block not far from from there for my sound amplifier. I could feed off that. Thanks for the idea.
No problem. Let me know how it turns out.
Old 07-04-2012, 10:42 AM
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Originally Posted by JK-Ford

Not bad. But if I may? I would suggest using a "dasy chain" method for this procedure. This method makes a more reliable connection. And it looks better too.
I like how the daisy chain method worked out.

Thanks for the tip.

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Old 07-04-2012, 10:20 PM
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Wow, that's a lot of wire and it's just from the switches to the relays (and switch lights).

I did a test hook up tonight to see if it worked.

Tomorrow I hope to get these parts installed, at least to the point of having the relays functioning.

After that it's just a matter of actually connecting the accessories to the relay outputs.

Phew!!!

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Old 07-05-2012, 03:10 AM
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Originally Posted by CBrNoMore
I agree ---. But --- most accessories are inside or wired inside (rock lights) --- reverse lights --- it shouldn't be a problem mounting the fuses and relays inside.
Agreed that it does work. But there are a few concerns when mounting this type of gear inside the cab. But hey, it's your jeep. Typically, you want to keep your power distribution conductors ( from the battery ) as short as possible. This increases the safety margin from short circuits by keeping the runs shorter. And keeps the higher current carrying devices outside of the cab ( fire and smoke safety ). This also reduces cost from buying longer lengths of larger cable. And orginizes your distribution gear into one area. Your smaller control conductors ( from switches ) are cheaper and more easily managable. And since they carry smaller currents, are safer to install inside the cab.

For what it's worth. Have fun with your install.
Old 07-05-2012, 07:56 PM
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It was a lot of work to get these switches going but wow, they look great.

The windshield lights are controlled by side marker lights being turn on. The footlights, rock lights and full time backup lights are controlled by switched power. And the auto function of the reverse lights are controlled by putting the gear selector into reverse.

I've just completed the switch portion of this project.

Tomorrow I will finish up the relays and fuse panel. Then when I find time, I will install the footlights, rock lights and backup lights and it should be easy to just connect to the relay outputs.

But for now, a big cheer for completing stage 1.


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Old 07-05-2012, 08:23 PM
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Originally Posted by CBrNoMore
Part 2 - I cut out the slots in the A-pillar pod for the switches.

It seems that many people are sanding down the sides of their switches to make them fit. I couldn't bring myself to do it, the switches are just too good looking.

Since I didn't already cut the pod, I decided to make my own cuts slightly offset from the stock markings.

Attachment 336825

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WHere did you get the switches...did you make them or order them from someone, i would like to add some custom switches to my ride.
Old 07-05-2012, 08:30 PM
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Originally Posted by rattler_thesnake

WHere did you get the switches...did you make them or order them from someone, i would like to add some custom switches to my ride.
Check out h t t p://www.otrattw.com/

They have many switches to choose from, labels, colors etc. and if they don't have something you're looking for, they can custom make it for you.

Cheers,
Old 07-06-2012, 06:20 PM
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Finally finished part 1.

The relays and fuses are installed behind the glovebox.

I had originally opted for a fuse block behind the glove box but after thinking about it, I didn't want to drill into the body. It's the pan in front of the windshield.

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I decided to go with inline fuses instead. Here they are wired up to the relay harness.

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Since I already had some decent power coming from the right side of the glovebox to power stereo amps, I tapped into that for the relay input (switch not coil side).

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Finally, some soldering for the control wires to the relay harness, some zip ties and wire loom, and it's all neatly (for me) in place.

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Now to add the actual accessories, I simply need to hook up to the relay outputs (yellow wires)

Cheers!



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