Question about switch and relays

[OU4LIFE]

Got two HID lights from KFX in this thread:

http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/golf-...ad-lights.html

and I feel fairly confident that these lights will pull more amps than a simple rocker switch can handle. Best I can tell is these are Ibis Tek lights, and are 12v with a 5 amp draw. Knowing absolutely nothing about wiring, can I assume that I need a relay that is 12v -5amps? Or does it need to be a little bigger, say 10amps? I really think that if I wire the lights direct to the switch, when they draw the initial start-up amps, they will fry the switch.

Anyone know what they are doing and can provide some council? The wires that come from the switch are roughly 18 gauge and in my mind just can't carry that voltage.

[Shrekage]

as long as the switch is rated for 10 amps (assuming 2 lights pull 5A each) you don't need a relay. 18Ga wire can handle 10 amps fine. you can get switches that are rated for higher amps so you don't need to mess with relays. most any auto parts store can get you a switch that will do the trick.

[OU4LIFE]

excellent. thanks much.

[DOOmsman]

I disagree with the 18 gauge being large enough for 10 amps. See the chart.

http://www.offroaders.com/tech/12-vo...auge-chart.htm

[Spawn]

Most fog light kits and the like use a Relay I would use one in this case because HID's use alot of power and create alot of heat and I too think the switch would fry out under load.

[OU4LIFE]

now i'm just as confused as before.

[bacord]

14 ga wire is rated for 15 amps and 12ga is 20 amps but in both cases you rate the wire at 80%. So a 12ga wire is good for 16 amps if wires are taped or bundled togather. Voltage drop happens fast on 12v like after 8 to 10 feet. Find a 20 amp switch and 12ga wire with the right terminals and you should be good to go. Should be able to get all from auto parts store. A little bigger is better than too small.

[dghii]

http://www.powerstream.com/Wire_Size.htm

Agree with post #7. 12AWG...relay optional if you have a 20amp switch.