Battery Meter Install

Filthy-Beast

I just got a meter I'm going to install in my 91 Marathon. Should install directly to the batteries or run a wire through the key so it is only on during operation?

I guess I could also install toggle switch and run it to the batteries.

any worries with leaving it on all the time?

BGW

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tag50

Depends on what type of meter- LED, bar graph or analog?


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Filthy-Beast

got an LED meter with backing plate from Carts Unlimited

Clemsoncartguy

Wire it directly to the batteries to be on all the time so you can see the state of the batteries. It only takes a few millivolts. The batteries self discharge at a faster rate than the amout of energy that volt meter takes.

tag50

There's no electrical reason to not leave it on all the time. I have mine on all the time.

Some like to wire from the key s/w as a reminder that the key is on. It's pretty much personal preference.


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scottyb

We could build a case for either way - It's your choice

Filthy-Beast

Thanks, will wire it directly to the batteries. If I end up not liking it, simple enough to change.

Helirich

I like the idea of the toggle switch. I have mine on the key, but I find it too brite at night. Of course, I can't turn the key off if I want to drive. I really don't see a need for meter when I don't have the key, but I pretty much always have the key with me. I might put a toggle switch in series with the key. (Just like my headlights)

Filthy-Beast

I would hate that as well, so I probably go for the toggle from the get-go.

Clemsoncartguy

Yea the meter is almost too bright at night but almost too dim in the daylight sun.