Overlloading Light switch on series 2A

Hi, I am in process of rebuilidng series2A 1968 with a V8 conversion. I have headlights in the wings but also have an older centre rad grille with headlights. I have connected these to a new loom so that all four lights operate of the standard switch. I have used a new switch but this failed shortly after use. Not sure if i was un lucky and had a dodgy switch or if i could be overloading it in some way and the switch has got hot and failed. Any ideas? Cheers ML

hi u might be why dont u just wire them in on a relay that will take the load of the switch

I have got another switch so will try that. I presume i can get a standard relay from motorist shop but dont know how this should be wired will check other threads to see if there is any info, wiring clearly not my strong point. I did think about only having one set say the outer wings working on full beam but didnt know if this would be okay for the MOT.

MarcosLandy said:

I have got another switch so will try that. I presume i can get a standard relay from motorist shop but dont know how this should be wired will check other threads to see if there is any info, wiring clearly not my strong point. I did think about only having one set say the outer wings working on full beam but didnt know if this would be okay for the MOT.

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get a relay from anywhere halfords etc, wiring simple loads of diagrams on google, basically you have your main power wire going to the relay and the switch activates the relay sending the power to your lights or whatever.

Simple diagram for ya mate, the relay pins will be numbered something like this...



Conect pin 86 to an earth
Connect pin 85 to the wire that comes from the switch and goes to the lights (at the switch end)
Connect pin 30 to a live (can tap off from the live side of the switch)
Connect pin 87 to the wire that comes from the lights and goes to the switch (at the lights end)

If your relay has an 87a pin then leave it dis.

Job done

And don't forget, you'll need two, one for dip and one for main. Or four if you're putting relays on the existing lights as well.

Cheers will have a look at that.Someone else mentioned about the requirement for two relays for main and full beam, I thought a triple connection block at the time was a bit to easy. Still , learn a little each day.

oxides said:

And don't forget, you'll need two, one for dip and one for main. Or four if you're putting relays on the existing lights as well.

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Or two if you want them all on at the same time.