Headlamp On-Off Switch

  • grumpy56
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Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 08:42
#287442
Was wondering if any of you have installed an on-off switch for headlights that normally turn on in the "run" position. If so, details would be appreciated. Thanks.
Lewis
1982 KZ1000-J2
2006 HD FXD35
1970 Suzuki T350
1972 Suzuki GT380 (In-Process)
In The Past...71 TM400, 72 H-D SS350, 72 GT380, 75 Z1B, 77 XLH, 79 CB750K

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  • bountyhunter
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Re: Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 14:52 - 03 May 2009 14:53
#287541
I never did. In '79 when mine was built, the law said the lights had to be on all the time and the light switch was removed from the bike by the manufacturer. In California, it is generally illegal if you modify stock lighting so I never tried to install a manual switch.

I did install relays in the power feeds that disconnect all the lights when I crank the starter and then they come back on when the starter button is released. That reduces the peak load on the battery and makes them last about 5X as long.

If you choose to install a switch, make sure it is rated for at least 10A.
1979 KZ-750 Twin
Last edit: 03 May 2009 14:53 by bountyhunter.

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  • Russ Jackson
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Re: Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 15:00
#287543
I have done it on cars before. You can pick up a switch at any auto parts store. Use one that is recommended for an electric auxilary fan...Russ
1976 KZ 900 B1 29 smoothbores, Kerker, Lester Mags
2008 Kawasaki Concours 14 abs

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  • MFolks
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Re: Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 15:21
#287547
These switches are a bit pricey but they are Mil-Spec for water resistance: MS24524-22 4 terminal on-off switch,
MS24523-22 2 terminal on-off switch,and MS25307-232 6 terminal on-off switch.
1982 GPZ1100 B2
General Dynamics/Convair 1983-1993
GLCM BGM-109 Tomahawk, AGM-129A Advanced Cruise Missile (ACM)

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  • grumpy56
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Re: Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 15:32
#287552
Thanks guys.
Lewis
1982 KZ1000-J2
2006 HD FXD35
1970 Suzuki T350
1972 Suzuki GT380 (In-Process)
In The Past...71 TM400, 72 H-D SS350, 72 GT380, 75 Z1B, 77 XLH, 79 CB750K

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  • stardon
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Re: Headlamp On-Off Switch

03 May 2009 18:39
#287633
I put a switch in the back of the head light bucket. It's hardly noticeable. I wired it to open the headlight ground so it kills only the headlight not the taillight. On my GPZ it also lights the headlight warning light so I know that the headlight is off during daytime.

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