Where to get 12v source from for gauges and boost controller

[rps13_fastback]

what's the best place to get +12v from? i have a boost and oil pressure gauge, along with an electronic boost controller... would it be ok to solder all these to the same joint ? i'm a newb @ wiring =P

TIA

[the head]

I assume you want a switched source so what I would do is tap power off of your switched 12+ from your head unit run it to a standard bosch relay so you have an individual and easily removeable and repairable circut to run your aftermarket equipment off of

[TheTimanator]

I assume you want a switched source so what I would do is tap power off of your switched 12+ from your head unit run it to a standard bosch relay so you have an individual and easily removeable and repairable circut to run your aftermarket equipment off of
why would you have to run it through a relay? I think I ran mine directly off of the head unit's power. Can you explain?

[the head]

Whenever adding more current draw to an electrical system I prefer to use existing wireing for low current triggers only.

I have seen electrical fores result form overloaded electrical before and have found that it does not occur as much when done in this manner

if you have an electrical problem it is far easier to rule out the additions as all you have to do is unplug the relay trigger. also allows you to test the wiring without using the car's electrical system and risking damage to other parts.

most of my electircal expierence is on old vehicles so i built full circuts because there was not usually a provision for the type of circut I needed and now it is just habit

And the last reason is that it take far less time to remove the equipment if you sell the car without the parts or wreck it and need to strip all of your aftermarket stuff before the car is totaled and hauled away

[s14 blacktop]

its a good habbit...

its a pain trying to find a single shorted out wire..
or a blown fuse first you find it replace it then another blows and process goes on and on...

[bobafett]

radio shack part number for the relay? i am needing to install my gauges, and i guess I would rather do it right..

what do i need to look for in finding the right relay?

[the head]

just go to an auto parts store they have the relay you need there they are referred to as bosch style relays has four pins will be with wiring and switches

[HyperTek]

you can half ass it and use the cigerette lighter... run a higher amp fuse and ur set...

[the head]

here are some helpful links for learning how to reliably hook up automotive electrical stuff

Standard automotive relay pinout info
http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-3190.html
basics of multimeters
http://www.overboost.com/story.asp?id=1112

any other stuff you want to know just ask and i will do my best to add more knowledge to the site

[mjjstang]

i wish i knew how relays worked,

[IGSDann]

i wish i knew how relays worked,

Oh snap! Howstufworks to the rescue!

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/relay.htm Whablam!

[mjjstang]

and I KNEW someone would post a link of howstuff works, just shows how lazy i am.