backup lights with override switch

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Lights, Neon, LEDs, HIDs
Forum Discription: Under Car Lighting, Strobe Lights, Fog Lights, Headlights, HIDs, DRL, Tail Lights, Brake Lights, Dashboard Lights, WigWag, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=91687
Printed Date: May 11, 2025 at 2:56 AM

Topic: backup lights with override switch

Posted By: Lenknermj
Subject: backup lights with override switch
Date Posted: March 13, 2007 at 9:55 PM

I haven't seen this topic addressed yet, so hopefully someone here will know the answer.

I have an 06 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad that I want to install auxiliary backup lights on. However, I want to be able to install a switch to DISABLE the lights (even in reverse) when I need to (and trust me, I sometimes need to). I have 2 possible ideas. If anyone has solutions for either, please let me know!! posted_image

Idea 1>

Aux lights come on automatically when in reverse when switch is in ON pos, and they stay off any time the switch is in the OFF position regardless of whether in reverse.

Idea 2>

3 position switch - lights can come on automatically in reverse, can be turned on manually by switch even when NOT in reverse, and lights are off regardless of whether in reverse.

KC HiLites has a diagram for wiring a switch to turn the lights on when not in reverse, but I guess I'm the only person who might NOT want them on sometimes....

Any help?

Thanks!!
- Meje

Replies:

Posted By: custom audio ny
Date Posted: March 14, 2007 at 7:22 PM

Honestly...your idea 1 or 2 will do the trick.

I don't know the wattage of the lights your are hooking up but will assume you need a relay.

Connect 85 to a toggle switch....other side of switch to ground. Connect 86 to the reverse lights positive. Connect 30 to battery source with a fuse, size depending on what the lights draw. Connect 87 to the extra back up lights.

posted_image

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Custom Audio
Lynbrook NY

ASE/MECP master certified

Posted By: custom audio ny
Date Posted: March 14, 2007 at 7:33 PM

option 2

posted_image

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Custom Audio
Lynbrook NY

ASE/MECP master certified

Posted By: Lenknermj
Date Posted: March 16, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Thanks man...you rock!

I'm gonna try #2, cause I'd really like to have the flexibility to turn the lights on manually when I want or need to.

Thanks for your help and crystal clear diagrams!

- M

Posted By: Lenknermj
Date Posted: April 22, 2007 at 11:04 PM

FOLLOW UP -

I followed Custom Audio NY's blueprints, and it works perfectly.

The only things I wanted to say are:

1> Thanks again.

2> If you plan on using a lighted switch, you may want to consider using 12v SWITCHED for the manual-on side of the switch, otherwise the LED will be lit even when the vehicle is turned off. Of course, you wont be able to turn the lights on without having the key in the ACC or RUN position, but chances are you wont need to anyway. Just wanted to share my learned lesson. =)

- Mark