Wiring a light bar on a golf cart can help improve visibility and safety when driving at night or in low light conditions. Here are the steps to follow to wire a light bar on a golf cart:
- Determine where to mount the light bar: Choose a location on the front of the golf cart where the light bar can be securely mounted. You may need to purchase a mounting bracket or kit if your golf cart does not already have one.
- Gather your materials: You will need a light bar, a wiring harness, a switch, wire connectors, and electrical tape.
- Disconnect the battery: Before starting any electrical work, make sure to disconnect the battery to avoid any risk of electric shock or damage to the golf cart’s electrical system.
- Connect the wiring harness: Attach the wiring harness to the light bar and connect the wiring harness to the golf cart’s battery.
- Install the switch: Mount the switch in a convenient location on the golf cart’s dashboard or steering column. Connect the switch to the wiring harness using wire connectors.
- Test the light bar: Turn on the golf cart and test the light bar to ensure that it is working properly.
- Secure all wiring: Use electrical tape to secure all wiring and protect it from damage or exposure.
- Reconnect the battery: Once you have completed the wiring, reconnect the golf cart’s battery.
- Use a relay: To avoid any risk of electrical overload or damage to your golf cart’s electrical system, it’s recommended to use a relay in your light bar wiring. A relay is an electrical switch that allows a low current circuit to control a high current circuit. It helps to protect your golf cart’s battery and electrical system by providing a safe and efficient way to power your light bar.
- Connect the ground wire: Make sure to connect the ground wire of the light bar and the wiring harness to a grounding point on the golf cart’s frame. This will help prevent any electrical issues and ensure the light bar functions correctly.
- Follow safety precautions: Always wear safety gloves and eye protection when working with electrical wiring to avoid any risk of electric shock or injury. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines before starting any electrical work.
- Consider a professional installation: If you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s always a good idea to have a professional install your light bar. This will help ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely.
Basic wiring components
| Component | Description | Purpose | Wire Gauge | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuse | Protects the circuit from electrical overload | Safety | 16 or 18 AWG | Red |
| Switch | Turns the light bar on and off | Control | 16 or 18 AWG | Black |
| Relay | Controls the high current flow to the light bar | Control | 10 or 12 AWG | Blue |
| Battery | Provides power to the light bar | Power source | 8 or 10 AWG | Yellow |
| Light bar | Illuminates the area in front of the golf cart | Lighting | 12 or 14 AWG | White |
Wiring connections
| Component | Connection | Wire Color |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Positive terminal | Yellow |
| Fuse | One end | Yellow |
| Switch | One end | Yellow |
| Relay | Pin 30 | Yellow |
| Light bar | Positive wire | White |
Relay connections
| Pin number | Connection | Wire Color |
|---|---|---|
| 85 | Ground | Green or bare |
| 87 | Light bar positive wire | White |
| 87A | Not used | N/A |
| 30 | Fuse and battery positive wire | Yellow |
| 86 | Switch wire | Black |
Wiring color code
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Power input |
| Black | Ground |
| Yellow | Battery or power source |
| Blue | Control |
| White | Lighting or output |
Note: These tables are for informational purposes only. Wiring a light bar on a golf cart can be complex and requires knowledge of electrical systems and wiring diagrams. It is recommended to consult a professional or refer to the golf cart’s wiring diagram for guidance.
