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?

[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]

Originally Posted by Helirich

.... but I find it too brite at night.....

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.