Auxiliary Fuse Block
by
Fariborz Rostami

I have used the 8-way fuse block from Del City:

http://www.delcity.net/delcity/servlet/catalog?parentid=10823&page=1

I placed the fuse block next to the existing block under the front left dash panel. It handles my auxiliary lights, power to the tank bag, radar detector, Autocomm and will eventually handle the heated grips on the ST4S. I wanted some spare slots in case I needed something else in the future.

There is a term, "Gang", that the electrical supply houses use. It means one side of all the fuse slots are connected to a single input. This means that you can take power from the battery using a single wire/cable and then use the fuse box as a distribution panel too.

Del City did not have a lower mount version of that and the high mount did not fit under the dash where I wanted to mount it. I ended up soldering all of the terminals on one side but would have preferred if they were already connected together. I think a solder
joint can create some heat if it is not done well and if a lot of current (i.e. auxiliary lights) go through it.

I also suggest you get a ground terminal block. This way you can have a single ground wire to go to the battery and will not have to use nuts and bolts on the frame or engine as a ground point. This is especially true if you are planning to use a communication system similar to Autocomm that requires a very GOOD, CLEAN and NOISE FREE ground.

As far as suggestions go:

1) Make a drawing of what you are planning to do first. It makes the wiring go smoother instead of trying to wing it as you go along.

2) Use good crimping (ed. Solder whenever possible).

3) Use heat shrink tubing for insulation and protection. I typically shrink one layer of tubing where the connectors are and leave a loose tubing (not heated to shrink) over the entire wire. This reduces the probability of accidentally fraying a wire and provides better protection.

4) If you are planning on using multiple wires that go to the same area use a multi-wire connector instead of single male and female spade connector for each wire. Most connectors are keyed and will eliminate the need to match the wires when you reconnect them.

5) Make sure you use relays if you are wiring lights or gadgets that can be accidentally left on. For example a heated grip is a great candidate to use a relay for. The control line of the relay can take its power from a light bulb wire that is turned on when the ignition is on.

6) Get Perry's Headlight Gizmo. This will allow you to start the bike up with your headlight off and when you put the bike into gear it will automatically turns the headlight on. Headlight Gizmo is also very handy if you like working on your bike and need to have the bike running when you are adjusting something. You can actually use the Headlight Gizmo to control multiple relays. My next wiring project is to rewire my auxiliary lights and have the Headlight
Gizmo control their relay.

7) Use good quality switches. They worth every penny of their original higher cost.

But all and all just do it. Projects like that are very satisfying when you are done!

-Fariborz

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