Help getting positive source in engine compartment.

[caverman]

I'm in the process of installing some HID headlights on an non-RS Camaro. The system needs a positive source and I assume that's going to have to come from the positive battery junction on the driver's side in the engine compartment.

Thing is I don't see how that's going to happen. I pulled off the red cover and I only see a large junction to looks way to big for me to attach my wire. I thought I would try to disconnect the junction and take a closer look but when I try to loose the (I think 11mm) bolt is seems stuck on there very hard and felt like I was about to bend the post.

Anyone have any idea on how I can attach my positive source?

[firestone_ss]

just unbolt the post and slide the eye lit under it as long as its is tight it wont go anywhere,and if you route the wire correct no one will see it either

[zen]

If you do that, the power will always be on. Locate a fuse that you want to use (one that will be off when the ignition is off) and buy a "fuse tap" (of the appropriate amps) and use the tap. You only need a female "stakon connector to go on the tap.


sample: http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=4932

more info: http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&key...cae328&mscbg=0

[caverman]

Originally Posted by firestone_ss

just unbolt the post and slide the eye lit under it as long as its is tight it wont go anywhere,and if you route the wire correct no one will see it either

So the post does definately unbolt? I tried taking it off but it felt like the support piece was bout to start twising/bending so I decided to stop before I broke something.

[caverman]

Originally Posted by zen

If you do that, the power will always be on. Locate a fuse that you want to use (one that will be off when the ignition is off) and buy a "fuse tap" (of the appropriate amps) and use the tap. You only need a female "stakon connector to go on the tap.


sample: http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=4932

more info: http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&key...cae328&mscbg=0

There is no fuse box in this area that I can tell.

[zen]

Right front corner of the engine compartment under a black cover. Many wiring harnesses running into it.

#'s, 46, 47, 50, 55, & 56 all deal with the lights.

[mclark10]

Originally Posted by caverman

So the post does definately unbolt? I tried taking it off but it felt like the support piece was bout to start twising/bending so I decided to stop before I broke something.

I had that problem too, but I was trying to connect a trickle charger for winter storage. I drilled a hole in the bottom mounting lug the post is connected to and used a self-tapping SS screw to attach the charger wire. But, like was mentioned before, this is always hot.

[Russell James]

In the directions for that kit, what specifically did it tell you to connect that to?

Constant 12V
Key on 12V
Lights on 12V

And how many amp circuit?

Knowing those things will help select the right spot for that wire. It may need to be lengthened or the end changed. Or like mentioned earlier, one of those gizmos that go into a fuse location to allow you to piggy back into that fuse circuit.

But need to know the circuit type and amp requirements.

[caverman]

I was finally able to talk to someone at AAC. He said it definately needed the constant power source and that all the Camaro installs they've done tapped into the Power junction under the hood.

I went out a few min ago and held onto the power juction better and was able to loosen the bolt. I then had to cut the round wire eyelet and make into a "U" shape. I was then able to bolt it on to the juntion. Tested the lights and they work!

So...after while I just have to find a way to mount the ballasts in a nice orderly fashion. I've been taking pics along the way and I'm going to do a DYI type thread to show anyone else how to install them.

BTW: Installer wanted $75. If he would've contacted me sooner I might have gone for it because I was a little paranoid of any electrical stuff. No need.........another $75 savings in my pocket!

[JCSSCamaro]

Very interested in your project, I replaced the DRL with HID driving lights (kit) and was going to wire them like yours, but do the ballast need 24/7 power?

seems like they need key power, or they will be hot all the time, but show me what you did and I am there

thanks
JC

[caverman]

Originally Posted by JCSSCamaro

Very interested in your project, I replaced the DRL with HID driving lights (kit) and was going to wire them like yours, but do the ballast need 24/7 power?

seems like they need key power, or they will be hot all the time, but show me what you did and I am there

thanks
JC

No problem.....I plan on creating a new thread with what I've done so far. Probably do it later tonight.

BTW: Nice ride! I like your stripes and wheels.....

[Moorepheus]

PICTURES???

[Nutbutt]

Don't worry about connecting the ballast directly to the positive terminal. First of this will give the ballast the most stable power source preventing flickering. And secondly the ballast have a solid state relay built in that is triggered by your headlight connector that is also plugged into the ballast. Connecting any other way may impact the life of the ballast.

[caverman]

Here is my DYI thread on this:
http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=69917