

| Subject: | Re: Trailer light converter. |
| From: | Michael A. Radtke |
| Date: | Mon, 3 Jan 2000 11:28:12 -0700 |
Russ et al,
I just recently had a similar experience, so I have been thinking about it.
1) Your circuit won't work. It's OK for turn signals or brake lights,
but not for turn signals and brake lights. If the stop lights are on,
the turn signals won't be seen.
2) 30 years ago when I was asked to design some auto tail light stuff,
I came across a government regulation that precluded using diodes
and maybe even transistors in the tail light current path since a
maximum allowable voltage drop was identified.
3) So, the other day, I made a design attempt using relays because of
my recollection of #2 above. I came up with two 2 relay circuits
that do not pass lighting current through any diodes. I have not
tested them though:
a) 2 double pole double throw relays
2 1 amp diodes (to make hazard lights work)
This circuit has the flaw that the brake light opposite the flashing
brake light will have a slight flicker.
b) 2 single throw double pole relays
2 1 amp diodes
2 large electrolytic capacitors
This circuit has the flaw of being a bit more expensive than the
previous circuit. The capacitors likely cost a lot more than
the savings from simpler relays. The values of the capacitors
are determined by the coil characteristics relays chosen.
I'm sure that other folks have better designs than mine. Let's hear from you.
Thanks,
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