gauges drawing power

[speedjunkie]

Originally Posted by Garfinkles Motor Works

Hook up to a hot connector that is only hot when the key is in the running position .

Are you talking about for the gauges or what exactly?

Originally Posted by Signal 2

^Yes, my first thought too. Where are you getting power from now? There is a switched power source available using a spade connector (comes on and off with ignition) just above the fuse panel here:

I would still include an inline fuse.


As for gauge lights, I tapped the wire going to the ashtray light in the console. It will then turn on (and dim) with all the other lights.

I'm getting power for the gauges from the dimmer switch, but like I said, I'm not sure that's gonna work right since I get continuity to ground on every wire. I'll change it to the ashtray light though, I didn't know it would dim with the dash lights.

[Signal 2]

Originally Posted by speedjunkie

.....I'm getting power for the gauges from the dimmer switch, but like I said, I'm not sure that's gonna work right since I get continuity to ground on every wire. I'll change it to the ashtray light though, I didn't know it would dim with the dash lights.

The dimmer is essentially a reostat (sp?), not a good source of power. Use the 12v switched power I circled in the picture. All you need is a spade connector and an in-line fuse...maybe 15 A before the gauges.
The gauges are probably drawing constant power from the battery instead of just when the key is on.