Electrical switch question

[Magikal]

Wiring up a couple circuits that have the switch in the negative line. How do i wire up a lighted rocker switch to function properly? I tried a few different ways and i either get the switch light always on or on when off.

 

[onetonbb74]

I did this for the domer on my buddies gmc...I tapped a 12v+ and ran it to the switch solely for the rocker switch light. I'd have to go see what I did, but it lights up when continuity goes through the switch. Dome light is negative switched. Just measure continuity through the switch, those are the negative switch legs and the 3rd terminal give + to the light bulb. If the light is coming on when the load is off, switch the negative wires on the switch.

 

[mechted]

You can use a relay to change the polarity of the switched line. IE: +12v through switch that feeds the +12v terminal on the relay. Then use the relay to switch the negative leg on the load you are using. Keeps your rocker LED's working as intended. The switch will only have the mA loading of the relay on it this way as well.

+12v from switch to the 86 terminal
Small GND to the 85 terminal
Load rated GND to the 30 terminal
Switched GND output to the 87 terminal

 

[Magikal]

You can use a relay to change the polarity of the switched line. IE: +12v through switch that feeds the +12v terminal on the relay. Then use the relay to switch the negative leg on the load you are using. Keeps your rocker LED's working as intended. The switch will only have the mA loading of the relay on it this way as well.

+12v from switch to the 86 terminal
Small GND to the 85 terminal
Load rated GND to the 30 terminal
Switched GND output to the 87 terminal

I do better with visual learning. Quick sketch?

 

[mechted]

Your switch should have some sort of wiring diagram to go with it. LED's tend to not work (or explode) if wired backwards, so follow the mfg diagram for it. Could be more complicated if you have a +12v dash light input or something feeding a second LED (depending on the switch)

 

[Magikal]

I have a 5 pin led rocker switch. Recycled parts in a full custom wiring job.

 

[Magikal]

Your switch should have some sort of wiring diagram to go with it. LED's tend to not work (or explode) if wired backwards, so follow the mfg diagram for it. Could be more complicated if you have a +12v dash light input or something feeding a second LED (depending on the switch)

View attachment 375290

Ahhh...i see. Using a relay to switch the load. Smart. Seems like a lot of work just to get a damn light to come on. I may just go back to positive switching.