I want to run the "switched 12V source" requirements of a fuel pressure guage, volt guage, and trans temp guage to the starter solenoid. I currently have my e-fan connected to the starter solenoid for its 12V source per the instructions. Could anyone tell me if I would be overloading the solenoid if I were to attach the three guages to it in addition to having the e-fan already hooked to it? Unfortunately my degree is not in electrical engineering, so any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

ttt

 

It would hould the extra amperage, but I would find another source for the gauges. The in-rush current for the starter could shorten the life of the gauges. Try to find a spare circuit, if these Fords have one (i have no idea either way). If not, I would use the circuit that powers the sound system.

 

Considering the solinoid is fed with around 2 gauge wire you can feed quite a bit off it without hurting it, per the inrush current. That really only impact motors and such, (depriving them of the correct amperage to start) gauges requre SOOO little juice that it can be managed with a .5 amp circuit, and that includes the bulb! So yess you can do it, not since the solinoid is constant battery power on the one side of it and only starter output on the other i would be wondering where you would get the 12v switched power unless you are running it through a relay.

My suggestion would be grabbing it from the radio circuit, where if you overload it your worse case would be a blown fuse. you will be able to get 12v switch, constang, and illumination from that point.

Now the kicker would be that any 'inexpesive' gauge thats all electric SHOULD be connected directly to the battery and switched voltage should be sourced from the battery via a relay trigger. The reason i say this is many low quality gauges are very impact to their accuracy depending on the qualityu of power you feed them. If you need wire colors post back and i'll give um to ya


Brandon