wire for lighter

[les]

I'm getting conflicting views on wiring a cigarette lighter, some say use a relay, some wire direct. The main question is what size wire is required, probably heavier if no relay? I've heard 20amp rating? Thanks.

[bmcecosse]

You would never use a RELAY for something like an accessory outlet (not known as cig lighter these days!).. How would a relay work?? You DO want a fuse in the circuit......

[mogbob]

Les
"Beefier " wire , 17.5 amp ( 28/ 0.30 type ).I guess colour Purple for an accessory but if you're not fussed ( ? )....keep clear of black ( earth ) so you don't get confused.( I'm very easily confused with electrical wiring colours, being partially colour blind !! but I have a very understanding wife. I'm brilliant at labelling, once she has told me what I've got. )
Bob

[autolycus]

I can see the advantage of using a relay if you want the socket to be ignition-controlled but don't want to load your ignition switch with much extra current.

If you know you'll only use it for a satnav, not a "travel kettle" or an inverter to power your record player (or whatever it was our friend wanted to do a few weeks ago), then wiring via the ignition switch would be fine, and you could get away with 14/0.3 cable (and a 5A inline fuse) if that's what you had lying around. There are arguments for and against wiring the socket permanently live: you're more likely to flatten your battery, but it will be easier to recharge without lifting your bonnet and faffing about with croc clips. Scrap washing machines are a good source of short lengths of car-like cable in a range of colours. If you're lucky, they'll even have a Lucar or ring terminal on one end.

Kevin

[bmcecosse]

Useful tip about the washing machine........

[les]

Thanks for all the replies, I might run it live but add a switch to isolate. I want to add a jack socket along side for a signpost lamp.