i recently installed a water temp gauge. when i sit in traffic, the temp climbs to 205. i know that's completely normal, but it drives me NUTS waiting for it to drop back into the 185-195 range! issues, i haz them. lol.

got me to thinking...i want to wire in a small light to indicate when the fan is on...

i know the wiring for the fan is a simple two wire deal: 12v and Ground

can i just tap into the 12v wire from the fan itself and connect it to a dash indicator light like this one from Painless:



( http://www.painlesswiring.com/webcat...rchAll=Customs )

is it that simple? i don't need a relay or anything like that do i?






i only ask because when i Googled this idea, i came across this guy's setup: http://xse.com/leres/ss/gaugepod.html

^^^ if that's the RIGHT way to do it...i don't want a light THAT bad.. lol

 

hmm not a bad idea. i wonder if its the same concept as having a light on the cluster come on when vtec engages.

 

The fan switch (stock engine - located on the back of the engine near the oil filter) carries ground. Not only is it a bit 'safer' to run wires around your car that are ground wires rather than 'hot' wires, but it should also be easier for your light.

Tap into the wire that is NOT providing constant ground. This is the wire that will get grounded when the temp rises and switch closes.
Run that wire to the location you want your light. (no relay.)
On your fusebox there is a few open connections that are switched (only provide power when the ignition is ON. (Get a 12V probe or a voltmeter to find on of them.) This will be the +12V for your light.
DONE.

When you turn the ignition ON the light will have power going to it.
When the fan switch reaches temp then it will close and provide ground for your light.
It will light up!


Another thing you can do:
After you light is working, tap into the ground wire again.
Connect it to one side a toggle switch.
Wire the other side of the switch to a good ground behind your dash.
When you flip the switch, the light will come on
-AND- your fan will come on!
MANUAL FAN SWITCH -WITH- REMINDER LIGHT!
Woooot! LOL!


Have fun man.

 

Drew a quick diagram.
You will add the BLUE wire and everything it hooks up to.

 

thanks 4drEF! you are the man

 

What engine are you running?
The engine fan switch might located on the thermostat housing if you have a swap.