Should I add relays to the windows?
Posted by Gs1000g@reddit | projectcar | View on Reddit | 11 comments
Since I have the power windows and seats working in the galaxie now. I’m debating on adding relays to the power motors. I’m going to start changing connectors because these are 60 years old and pretty crusty.
Any reason not to add power relays to the motors? Or should I just redo the end connectors, and put in new motors?
-TinyTM-@reddit
Leave it alone and carry a spare switch, they can be ordered through dorman. Needless to modify it, the engineers specced the switches to handle the current load when they were building the car.
25_Watt_Bulb@reddit
Not exactly what you were asking, but if the wiring connectors in your 60s Ford look familiar it's because they're the same ones still used for trailer wiring. You can get new ones to integrate with your existing wiring easily: https://www.delcity.net/store/trailer-towing-accessories/towing-electrical/wire-connections/molded-connector-loops/
I would avoid needlessly replacing connectors though. The connections you'll have to add to join the new plugs will always be a weak spot compared to an intact wire.
hannahranga@reddit
Depends how you do it, I'd be swapping them to a connector style that you can terminate yourself.
Gs1000g@reddit (OP)
Thanks for all the advice! I’ll add relays. Just wanted to make sure there wasn’t a downside to them.
The seats and the windows are all just 1 wire hard wired to the 12v power source. I Don’t mind the labor now that I have everything working. It won’t take me long to replace/ solder new connectors and add water proof removable ends. The old connectors are damn near impossible to get together without maximum force. I just wanted re affirm what I already thought was the right decision
v8packard@reddit
Yes, absolutely you should.
Also look for SAE Molded connectors.
FormulaZR@reddit
I think it would be a lot of effort now, but tons better in the long run. I know Dodge runs full power through the headlight switch of the 94-02 Ram and those are prone to failure because of it - so any relay you could add on a high current circuit should mean switches last longer.
bwebb94@reddit
There are companies that make relay harnesses for the headlights for the rams, there’s also a recall on those switches and they’re prone to potentially catching on fire
FormulaZR@reddit
Fair enough - was just using that as an example of why the relays would be beneficial in the long run, even if more effort/cost upfront.
bwebb94@reddit
Sorry if my comment seemed like it was in contest to what you were saying - not the case at all. I agree with you 100% and was just adding some context around what happened with the rams because I’ve dealt with it
AngryScottish@reddit
The answer to whether or not to use a relay can ba answered by asking yourself:
Do you want to send all of that amperage thru the switch or just to the window motors?
Boonies2@reddit
I did it with my 1972 BMW, takes the load off the switches. While you have it apart is the best time to do it.
Also do the same for the headlights, it will make a big difference.