How to Wire an LED Light Bar Properly (Project Night Light Episode 3)

Summary

In this video, the creator walks through the step-by-step process of wiring and installing an LED light bar for off-road use. The tutorial covers everything from preparing the wiring, crimping connections, and mounting the relay, to routing wires through the vehicle’s firewall and securing them with zip ties. After successfully installing the system, the light bar is tested on an off-road trail, providing a major improvement in visibility. The video emphasizes proper installation techniques for safety, neatness, and optimal performance, culminating in a bright, powerful light bar ready for nighttime adventures.

Takeaways

• 😀 Properly wiring an LED light bar with a relay requires connecting both power and ground wires securely.
• 😀 Make sure to use the correct fuse rating for your setup; in this case, a 7.5-amp fuse is used, though a 5-amp fuse is recommended.
• 😀 Use heat shrink tubing to protect metal connections and prevent electrical shorts or damage.
• 😀 It's crucial to run the wiring through an existing grommet in the firewall to protect the wires and maintain the integrity of the vehicle's structure.
• 😀 When wiring the relay, connect the power-in wire to the correct terminals, including the ground, power, and fused wires.
• 😀 Properly secure the relay with a mounting stud and use a nut to ensure it stays in place and remains dry.
• 😀 Zip ties are an effective way to organize and secure wires along the vehicle’s body, ensuring they don't interfere with moving parts like the brake pedal.
• 😀 Test the light bar thoroughly after wiring to ensure that everything works as expected before heading out.
• 😀 The light bar should be mounted in a location that minimizes reflection, which improves visibility while driving at night.
• 😀 LED light bars are ideal for off-road use, providing clear visibility of trails without straining the eyes.
• 😀 Proper switch placement is key for convenience; having the switch near the steering wheel ensures easy access while driving.

Q & A

Why is it important to use a relay when wiring an LED light bar?

A relay is used to control the flow of power to the light bar, ensuring that the high current required by the lights doesn't pass through the vehicle's switches directly. This prevents overheating and ensures a more reliable and safe connection.

What is the purpose of using a fuse in this wiring setup?

The fuse serves as a safety mechanism to protect the wiring and components from potential short circuits or overloads. It ensures that if the system draws too much current, the fuse will blow, preventing damage to the vehicle's electrical system.

Why was a 7.5 amp fuse initially used instead of a 5 amp fuse?

A 7.5 amp fuse was used because it was the smallest available at the time. However, the user plans to replace it with a 5 amp fuse later, which would be more appropriate for the power draw of the light bar.

What does the user mean when they refer to the 'ground' of the light bar?

The 'ground' of the light bar refers to the connection that completes the electrical circuit by providing a path for the current to return to the vehicle's battery or chassis. A proper ground connection is essential for the light bar to function correctly.

How does the user ensure the wiring is safe and organized?

The user uses zip ties to neatly bundle and secure the wiring harness, ensuring that the wires are kept out of the way of moving parts like the brake pedal and emergency brake. This prevents damage to the wires and ensures they don't interfere with vehicle operation.

Why was the ground wire connected to the chassis instead of the battery post?

The ground wire was too short to reach the battery post, so the user opted to connect it to the chassis instead. Grounding to the chassis is a common practice as the metal body of the vehicle can serve as a conductive path for the current.

What is the significance of the light bar's placement in relation to the vehicle's hood?

The light bar is mounted slightly behind the hood to ensure that the light's cutoff is at the edge of the hood. This prevents light from reflecting off the hood, which could cause glare and obstruct the driver’s vision.

What should be avoided when using an LED light bar on public roads?

The LED light bar is intended for off-road use only. It should not be used on public roads as it can cause excessive glare for other drivers, potentially leading to accidents or distractions.

What is the advantage of routing the wiring through a grommet in the firewall?

Routing the wiring through a grommet in the firewall provides a safe and secure way to pass wires from the interior of the vehicle to the engine compartment. The grommet protects the wires from abrasion and ensures they remain sealed from moisture and debris.

Why is it important to mount the relay in a dry location?

The relay should be mounted in a dry location to prevent moisture from damaging the electrical components. Exposure to moisture can lead to short circuits, rust, or corrosion, which could cause the system to malfunction.