? for 12 volt relay experts

I am installing my own tower lights and was wondering if I could run 2 relays off 1 switch? It seems like it will work if I just ran a jumper between the relays from the switch. Do the real tower lights just have 1 big relay?

Matt you could easily run 2 relays off of one switch.

The switched side of the relay draws very little current so you can jumper the trigger (and grounds for that matter) together.

I don't know if the "real" tower lights even include a relay, but the common relays I have seen at the auto parts stores are 30 amps. So my view is to run no more than about 300 watts of lights per each 30 amp relay. You then have a little safety factor for the losses due to the length of wire, connections, etc.

You could buy a higher amperage relay, but the 30 amp ones are about $5 and readily available vs having to pay extra $$ and locate some other type.

I have 4 55 watt lights, so I can run all 4 off one relay and not worry about anything?

4*55W=220W
220W/12V=18.3A

Most marine switches are 20A so you actually could probably get away without a relay at all.

you guys are the best, thanks

I know…. Do a search. But since this is a current thread… I figured it was a fair question.

Anyone got pics of the relay and any wire diagrams?? This post reminded me that my 4 55w lights keep popping the breaker on my switch. I tried running all of them together and they will work briefly then turn off. Thanks.

Jeff, the guage and length of your wire is probably pushing you to just over the amp load of your circuit breaker.

A relay would probably be your best bet.

These relays are available at AutoZone, Checker, etc.