Classic Mini - Wiring Spots and Lamps - Problems, Questions and DIY
05/21/2014
Paddy has had his WIPAC driving lights installed, but not wired, for about a year now. It was about time to do something about that! In the References section at the bottom of this post you'll find links to the UK The Mini Forum and a couple of people specifically for their help in educating me in the basics of automotive wiring.
Based on their help, I started out by modifying the WIPAC instruction sheet (below) with some specifics to my Classic Mini.
Before starting the project I purchased all of the necessary pieces and parts . . . here's a list of most of those items:
PARTS:
Wiring Kit, Auxiliary Lights (RLFK200)
You should always use this kit when fitting auxiliary spot or fog lamps. Kit contains wiring and safety relay. Plugs match those on Rover Mini spot or fog lamps.
Driving Lamp Set, Wipac, w/ covers (S6007)
Wipac driving lamps. Chrome, all metal body, attractive chrome finish will compliment the chrome brightwork on your Mini. Sold as a pair; includes covers.
For mounting, order two (2) stainless brackets (XBU10046).
Miscellaneous Electrical Fittings:
- 14-16 gauge electrical wire (if not using kit)
- Assorted 14-16 gauge spade and bullet connectors
- Assorted quick splice terminals
- Terminal ring connector (to solenoid)
- Heat shrink tubing (create wire loom)
- Wire ties (Zip Ties) (fasten wires to body, etc.)
This project is VERY simple . . . once you've done it! Know what I mean? The first time is where all the mistakes are made and the education is gained. In the references section of this post the reader can find some pretty detailed information. My intention here it to simply provide a photographic journal of the project:
The first thing that I did was to plan out the installation using the wiring kit mentioned above. I basically created a wiring loom using heat shrink tubing while all of the wiring was loose and off the car.
Remember to always use a fuse and disconnect the battery when working on automotive electrics. I chose to START by installing the relay (provided in the kit) on the inner wing and then worked my way towards the front of the car and lights. I used zip ties to anchor the wires as I went.
Based on the wiring diagram, I needed to located the Blue/White High (Main) Beam wire that was conveniently located just behing the front grill.
Power was picked up at the solenoid junction. Note the inline 15Amp fuse.
Then, connecting the lights with bullet connectors, which will allow the wires to be easily disconnected when it's necessary to remove the front grill.
The end result . . . . The low beams will come on without the driving lights.
But when the High (Main) Beam is activated by the foot switch all four lights will fire.
References:
Thanks to Nev_Payne from the UK "The Mini Forum" for his brief but enlightening explanation and diagram for installing driving lights - click here
Thanks to Cooper Man from the US "The Mini Forum ALSO for his MANY explanations and diagrams on lighting (and many other topics) - click here.
Wiring Spots And Lamps - Problems, Questions and Technical - The Mini Forum