Relays

[Ed Kurzawa]

Got a question for you Sparky. How many variations of 5 terminal automotive and truck relays do you know of or run across ? I was the one who posted the information I had on the fusable link question that brian asked about. The Napa relay and bulk relays I've bought in the past from State Wire 87 and 87a are hot when the switch is activated. I use them for lighting applications on trucks and heavy equipment.I run one terminal to front and the other to rear lighting.I also use the Napa plug kit because it keeps all my harnesses color coded. I have run into a Boshc 5 pin relay on big GM dump truck heater circuit and one of the 87 terminals was turned the opposite way from the relays I keep in stock so I ended up at the dealer for it. Normally when I order I just ask for universal 40 amp breaker and thats what I always gotten was 5 prong w two hot 87&87a. I assume the Boshc I ran across is the one that you were referring to on the other post or are there more?Thanks for all the info you provide here,Ed Kurzawa SR

[Sparky]

Depending on specific application and requirements there are many different types and forms of relays. I specifically use a relay which requires a socket with a locking tab for a couple of different reasons. One of the most important reasons is so that a wire doesn’t fall off due to NVH. This usually happens when you use the crimp type spade terminals.
The relays I have built for my specific applications are set up to handle a 100 amp spike and carry 40 amps continuous. I spend a couple dollars more setting up this way, but I don’t have any issues/problems with them either.

I hope this helps,
Sparky