power for your gauges

[gsxeclipse97]

I have all my gauges wired though my fuse box but but im looking for a different alternative. Is there a different way to run them? I also have a rpm switch and it also is wired through the fuse box so im not sure if i want to change how those things are done..

 

[sirsol66]

I have my gauges wired the same way which i personally think is the most convenient way since they turn on when your car does (Mine are the tinted gauges so i need them on to see them even during the day). However, you can pretty much use any power and ground wire in the car. I was told several times to use the power from the radio or to wire it into the factory dimmer switch so you can control it similar to your stock gauges.

Personally though, I prefer the fuse box since you do not need to cut any of the factory harness to install your gauges. Your call though

 

[kmoore]

What I use, and many other DSM'ers (easiest way in my opinion) is to use the wires going to the cirgarette lighter. Easy access and easy wiring.

 

[alex99gst]

If you want your gauges to fade with the lights it is easy to tap into the power wire for the dimmer. Just use a multimeter and figure out which wire is the power. It is all up to you.

 

[gsxeclipse97]

I really just wanted to make sure that it wasn't going to mess anything up becuase i don't hav the interior lights that come on when you open the doors. i was wondering if that is a possible reason they dont I was looking on the fuse box and i noticed that there no markings for it so... Im not sure why also my light around the key thing doesn't come on as well as my fog lights. so i thought that might have something to do with it.

 

[spyderturbo007]

If you want your gauges to fade with the lights it is easy to tap into the power wire for the dimmer. Just use a multimeter and figure out which wire is the power. It is all up to you.

That's exactly what I do, plus it's easy to access when you are installing the gauge.

 

[doggo]

But not such a good solution if your gage is all-electronic like an AEM WB. For all-electronic displayed gages you want a non-variable 12V source.

An AEM WB will vary its output with input voltage somewhat, in my experience. The dimmer circuit that goes through the cig lighter on 1Gs is fine for backlights on standard mechanical gages though.

That being said, I'm using the dimmer circuit to power my gages (including the AEM WB) in my car. But only cause I'm so far too lazy to track down a convenient constant 12V DC feed.

 

[Cobrasatellite]

I use the cigarette lighter for power on my gauges and the dimmer on there back lights. It takes a little more work but I spend 3 hours a day in the car so I might as well enjoy the setup.

 

[justoscar1]

i also just wired them to a fuse.....and ran a switch to them also so i can ride
stealth mode when i need to.