Relays are an important part of a vehicle’s electrical system. They allow for the control of high current devices without the need for heavy duty switches or wiring. In this article, we will cover the basics of a 5 pin relay wiring diagram and how it can be used to wire a horn. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to wire a 5 pin relay for a horn.
What is a relay?
A relay is an electrical switch that is operated by an electromagnet. When the relay coil is energized, the switch contacts move to complete the circuit. Relays are used in a wide range of applications, including automotive, industrial, and home automation.
The main advantage of a relay is that it allows for the control of high current loads without the need for heavy duty switches or wiring. By using a relay, a small current can be used to control a much larger current.
What is a 5 pin relay?
A 5 pin relay is a type of relay that has five pins. These pins are typically numbered 85, 86, 87, 87a, and 30. The pins can be thought of as follows:
- Pin 85: This is the ground pin for the coil. When the coil is not energized, this pin is connected to ground through the relay.
- Pin 86: This is the positive pin for the coil. When power is applied to this pin, the coil is energized.
- Pin 87: This is the normally open (NO) contact of the relay. When the relay is energized, this contact closes to complete the circuit.
- Pin 87a: This is the normally closed (NC) contact of the relay. When the relay is not energized, this contact is closed to complete the circuit.
- Pin 30: This is the common contact of the relay. This contact is connected to either the normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC) contact, depending on the state of the relay.
How to wire a 5 pin relay for a horn?
Wiring a 5 pin relay for a horn is a simple process. The following steps will guide you through the process:
Step 1: Gather the materials
To wire a 5 pin relay for a horn, you will need the following materials:
- 5 pin relay
- Horn
- Fuse holder
- Fuse
- Wire (12 gauge)
- Wire connectors
Step 2: Connect the horn
The first step is to connect the horn to the relay. To do this, connect one wire from the horn to the common contact (pin 30) of the relay. Connect the other wire from the horn to the normally open (NO) contact (pin 87) of the relay.
Step 3: Connect the power
The next step is to connect the power to the relay. Connect one wire from the positive terminal of the battery to one of the pins on the fuse holder. Connect another wire from the other pin on the fuse holder to pin 86 on the relay.
Step 4: Connect the ground
The ground wire should be connected to pin 85 on the relay and to a suitable ground point on the vehicle. This can be any bare metal surface that is connected to the chassis of the vehicle.
Step 5: Install the fuse
The last step is to install the fuse. Insert the fuse into the fuse holder and make sure it is securely in place. The fuse should be rated for the maximum current that the horn will draw.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a 4 pin relay for a horn? | A: Yes, a 4 pin relay can be used for a horn. However, a 5 pin relay is recommended as it provides an extra contact (NC) for added flexibility. |
Q: How do I test a 5 pin relay? | A: To test a 5 pin relay, you can use a multimeter to check the continuity of the contacts. Apply power to the coil and check that the contacts open and close as they should. |
Q: Can I use a 5 pin relay for other applications? | A: Yes, a 5 pin relay can be used for a wide range of applications. It is commonly used in automotive, industrial, and home automation applications. |
In conclusion, wiring a 5 pin relay for a horn is a simple process that can be done by anyone with basic electrical knowledge. By using a relay, you can control high current devices without the need for heavy duty switches or wiring. We hope that this article has provided a comprehensive guide to 5 pin relay wiring diagram for horn and answered any questions you may have had.