voltage reducer placement for gauge cluster

Hey guys, Getting the dash wired up...just one question, should I place the reducer before the fuse panel or after...Can I just run the Hot wire from the fuse block through the reducer then on to gauges?

 

anyone???

 

Put the reducer close to the gauges, that is between the fuse and the gauges.

 

I've also, heard/read that you can run the reducer from the ignition switch to the gauges

 

this is what I came up with Napa 12.00 dollar unit...

 

I'm not familiar with that Napa part, but it almost looks like a resistance type reducer like a ballast resistor or heater blower uses.

If it is a resistance type, those need to be spec'd by the load of whatever you are reducing the voltage at.

In other words, if the resistor is too big for very low draw like gauges, then it will not drop the voltage very much at all.

 

That won't work at all for gauges. Those are for wiper motors, blower fans etc. they rely on a load to reduce the voltage. For gauges you need an OEM ford gauge voltage reducer found on dozens of 50-60-70s fords, or an aftermarket electronic voltage reducer. The one you have pictured will send the full voltage of the system to your gauges.

 

wow, thanks guys I had no Idea...very much appreciated

 

Ford's is called electronic instrument voltage reducer, C&G early Ford parts has them but they are pricey. $37 I think I got one at NAPA a while back.

 

This is what you need STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS Part # VRC604 wire it in right before the gauges, ford ran them for years
At rockauto they are around $40.00 or so
if you need help let me know

 

great thanks again guys, i'll look for it tomorrow and return the other one