Buzz
Adding floodlights to your vehicle can enhance your ability to illuminate the ground while driving off-road or in low-light conditions. It's worth noting that using floodlights on public roads may be prohibited in some regions, so ensure you check local laws before installation.
Steps to Follow
Mapping Out Mounting Spots
Disconnect the Car Battery. Prior to working with your vehicle's electrical system, it's crucial to disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical accidents or damage. Lift the hood and use a wrench to loosen the nut securing the black ground cable on the negative terminal. Once loose, remove the cable and secure it away from the terminal to prevent accidental contact.
Choose an Appropriate Mounting Spot. There are various places where you could mount a spotlight, so select a location that suits your needs best. Common spots include on top of your side mirror or on the vehicle's roof.
Select the Right Type of Light. There are several spotlight options available, including halogen, LED, and HID. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks, so choose based on your requirements and budget.
Decide on the Switch Placement. Determine whether you want to install a button or switch inside your vehicle to control the spotlight. If the spotlight already has a switch, you may still opt to wire one to your dashboard for added convenience.
Wiring the Spotlight with a Relay
Install the Relay in the Engine Bay. If your spotlight kit doesn't include a relay, you'll need to purchase and install one. Most spotlights should be connected to a power source through a relay to avoid damage. Mount the relay inside the engine bay, ensuring it's away from excessive heat from the exhaust manifold.
Grounding the Relay. Attach a short length of black wire from the relay to a bolt on the vehicle's body or frame. Strip the wire at the end, loop it around the bolt, and twist it securely before tightening the bolt.
Connect a Wire to an In-line Fuse. Install an in-line fuse holder and connect it to the positive post on the relay. Ensure there's a fuse rated for the spotlight's power requirements to protect against electrical surges.
Link the Fuse to the Battery's Positive Terminal. Run a wire from the fuse holder to the positive terminal on the battery. Ensure a secure connection to provide power to the relay and the spotlight.
Wire the Relay to the Spotlight's Positive Post. Connect a wire from the relay to the positive post on the spotlight. Secure the connection with soldering or twisting, and protect it with electrical tape or shrink wrap.
Connect a Wire from the Relay to the Switch. Run a wire from the relay's open post to the switch in your vehicle, if desired. This allows the switch to control the spotlight's power.
Mounting the Wired Components
Drill Mounting Holes for the Spotlight. Utilize the hardware provided in your spotlight kit to mount the light in your chosen location. Apply weatherproofing material if necessary to prevent water leakage through drilled holes.
Install the Switch on the Dashboard. Drill a hole through the trim of your dashboard and secure the switch in place. Use a screw-on cap to cover the switch, ensuring it's easily accessible while driving.
Grounding the Switch. Connect a black wire from one of the switch's prongs to a bolt on the vehicle's body or frame to provide the necessary ground for proper functioning.
Connect the Switch to a Power Source. Locate a fuse box inside your vehicle and find a fuse that powers a device only when the vehicle is running. Install an 'add-a-circuit' or standard fuse holder to connect the wire from the switch.
Secure the Wiring. After wiring everything, reattach the battery and conceal the wiring to keep it out of sight. Use zip ties to secure any excess wire under the dashboard and along the vehicle's exterior edges.
