Help with LED install...

[J needs help]

Hello...this is my first post. Just looking to get some advice on a project with which I really don't have much experience.

I'm looking to install led indicator lights on my atv. I looked a kits but the prices seemed a bit ridiculous for what was included in the package... and the lights didn't look all that bright or aesthetically pleasing. I found 2 pairs of orange 12v led strip lights (12" w/9 LEDs) at a discount store for a little less than $20. They had battery packs in the packaging for testing purposes and were extremely bright compared to the kits. I picked up a relay and handlebar mounted switch with two latching switches (left/right) and one momentary switch. I thought the third momentary switch would work well if I decided to get a horn.

I've temporaryily connected it all with short leads that have alligator clips to test it out before I install it on the atv. It all seems to function as I had hoped... lights are bright and flash at the proper rate. The one issue I'm having is that the first flash is about 5% +/- of the potential brightness...after that, back to normal. I also don't have a fuse in the circuit. Not sure if it's necessary??? The packaging says use only with 12v capable of 1.5 amps...for the pair I'm assuming as that is how they were packaged. The odd part about that statement is that the test batteries in the package were 2- 9 volts wired in series.

I'm quite open to any advice the community can give me with this installation. I often get myself into situations like this and it'd be great to get it right and not burn something up by just going with trial and error.

Thanks in advance,

J

 

[Tha fios agaibh]

...one issue I'm having is that the first flash is about 5% +/- of the potential brightness...after that, back to normal. I also don't have a fuse in the circuit. Not sure if it's necessary???

The dim first flash is because the flashing circuit needs to charge up during initial power up, and it discharges when not being used for a while. I'm not sure you can do anything about that unless you want to change or modify the flashing circuit.

I say the fuse is very important. If you were to damage one of the wires without proper fuse protection your machine could go up in flames. Fuse it at 1.5 or 2A

I recommend putting an inline fuse holder as close to the power source as you can and be careful not to route wiring near engine parts that may get hot.

 

[J needs help]

Exactly what I need to know! Thanks for your reply and advice.