lightbar question

[eat_sleep_jeep]

XJ drivetrain problem

I just installed a lightbar onto my 89yj with 5 apc lights. I believe these lights are 100 watts each. I haven't wired up the lights yet and I was wondering if the lights are going to drain the battery faster than the alternator can charge. Does anyone run a lightbar with the stock alternator??

 

[Tug-n-pull]

wire up the lights through a Relay or better yet multiple relays and switchs so you can use one or more at a time. This will also take some of the drain off you electrial system. Then yu will be able to see for yourself what your system will handle. New alternator upgrade will not be that big of a deal if needed. Good luck and welcome to jeepz. Tug

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

The AC Delco altenator on your jeep is very easy to rebuild for more amps. Check out the high amp rebuild kits at www.jcw.com for less than $40.

Fo anybody with the NipponDenso 70A or 117A alternator in their late model YJ, XJ, or TJ, I just did the 136A upgrade and it's pretty much a bolt in. The 136A unit nearly doubles my output, and was $45 at a local yard. They came in some ZJ's, Dodge trucks, Dodge vans, Durangos, Dakotas, etc.

 

[Snitty]

hey bounty... you still got a link to the 136A swap?

 

[LGR]

i got a question..seeing how we're talking light bars and lights. How do ya get the wire into the cab or engine bay from the top of the bar? anyone got a write up or pictures?

 

[XJNick]

This will also take some of the drain off you electrial system.

To clarify, using relays doesn't really take any load off your electrical system. They instead will allow you to route the excessively high current draw of the halogen lamps through a decent circuit using large sized wire to a good power distribution point such as the battery terminals and away from the fuseblock and factory harnesses which aren't meant for those large electrical loads. :mrgreen:

-Nick :!: