How to Install CCFL Tubes with relay and switch

Hey everyone, new member here but not new to forums. With that being said, I've searched extensively for the solution to this particular set up I'm planning on having. I want to run 4 CCFL tubes in my 2004 G35. I first got this idea from a thread on G35Driver.com.

Heres the link for reference: http://g35driver.com/forums/1732351-post4.html

The original poster, tapped into his BCM so that the CCFL's turn on when the doors are open, so it doesnt stay on. Here's my question. I was told to use this setup with a relay for optimal performance/safety. I'm a complete newbie when it comes to electrical wiring so if any one can help guide me through this, it'd be great. Also, i would like to incorporate a switch so i can keep them on even with the doors closed. If anyone can help me, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

I really can't help you but I want to be the first to welcome to the forums. People will chime in soon to help you out.

Haha thanks! I was doing some reading and i think if i tap into the cigarette lighter, it would work the way i want it to and i can use a switch with it. What i need to know now is, how do i incorporate a relay with this?

Ok, I'm a tard . What's a BCM ?

Body Control Module

Anyone out there with input? I was told that if i use a switch, i dont need a relay. Is this true?

I actually installed a somewhat similar setup in my Element,but instead of using CCFL tubes,I used six Oznium l.e.d. ribbon strips. I tapped into my domelight circuit,which of course goes to my factory BCM and I used a relay with a lighted rocker switch,plus a diode to allow me to turn them on with my dome lights anytime/whenever the doors are closed,plus to allow me to bypass my factory domelight timer. Now on my vehicle my factory dome light works via a switched ground source,so since the rocker switch I used would be sending a positive signal to the circuit,I used a relay to switch polarity to send a ground signal to trigger my relay and trigger the factory dome light circuit. I used a diode as to not back feed voltage into my lighted rocker switch,so when the doors are open and the switch is not in on,the indicator light on my switch is not lit,but when the switch is in use the indicator lights up/functions as it should.

Anyone know if it'll be safe for me to tap my cig lighter with out a relay? i dont want to start a fire or something.

Perfectly Fine , I'd install a switch in the line to control them

So to install the switch, all i have to do is cut the power wire, connect one end to one prong and the other end to the other prong?

yuppers

Thanks for the help Venge.'

One other question, what should I use to drill a hole into the plastic of my center console?

A simple drill bit from your local hardware store, something that can drill wood could certainly drill plastic

Be VERY careful make sure you check behind before drilling ... Some cars have airag controllers ect in the center console

Thanks for the advice guys. Just for reference, I bought this switch, http://www.oznium.com/black-paddle-switch. 18mm is aprox .70 In. If i get the 18mm drill bit, wouldnt it be too big? or should i get one a shade smaller to fit it?

THe nut's pretty big So you can go 19mm , or just check the drill index and find a standard thats slightly bigger ....

Gotcha. I'll see if I can find a bit at home depot. thanks.

WhosRich wrote:

Gotcha. I'll see if I can find a bit at home depot. thanks.

Would i be able to tap into the cig lighter with 4 ccfl tubes?

sure

I'm having confusing regarding the mounting hole for my switch. This is the description for it,
Recommended mounting hole: SP 15M/DP 18mm. it says i need to make 14.73mm hole for it. But then why does it say 18mm then?

just look at the threaded portion of the switch , get a drill thats just slightly larger the 18mm might be the size of the nut

I got a drill bit thats 19mm and i was getting scared because if i make a whole too big its gonna be ugly. Id rather go too small than too big. but thanks again venge. I finally have all the tools needed to start the project.

its always better to make it too small cause you can make it bigger

yes my thoughts exactly. I hope 19mm isnt too big, or else im screwed.

Just thought i'd update. So I installed the switch by drilling with my 19mm drill bit, which turned out to be too small for some reason. I had to file down the hole to get a snug fit but i couldnt get it flush. Also as a side note, the design of the switch doesnt make sense. you have to drill with a round bit but its square on the outside. so im left with a small gap on the outsides of the switch. No one can really see it but it still bothers me. Another problem i ran into was the CCFL tubes White wire wasnt really long enough to comfortable reach from the passenger side to the driver side so that was a headache. All in all, i got them to work, but not as clean a install as id hoped.