[boris_thespider]

Can I use 14 gauge wire from my ignition switch (START terminal) to the neutral safety switch, then to the starter relay (since the relay isn't pulling in the starter solenoid, but is only switching power to that circuit)? Basically, my question is... how much current does the Ford starter relay (not the starter solenoid) pull? Thanks...

Mike

[Oldguy48]

#14 AWG wire will carry 15 amperes. I can't imagine that your starter relay requires anywhere near that value to pull in. If you have a multimeter that measures current, you could measure the current it draws. Many multimeters have a DC current range that will handle up to 10 amperes. Should be more than adequate for your application. Just set up the multimeter for DC current, and put the leads in series with the relay coil circuit. I think you'll find that the #14 AWG wire will work just fine.

[bentwings]

My main electrical pull in solenoid looks like a Ford fender mount. It draws about 1.5 amp all the time it is active. It will kill the battery after a while. I tested it as noted with the multimeter. The literature that came with it says it will handle 200 amps.

[Shelby1]

Are you using this relay for starting or as a switch to control power to your vehicle ? It will handle the current to start your motor( 200 amps, I thought that it was rated higher than that, But I might not be remembering correct) but it can not be used as a continuous duty relay to switch the main power. It will fry. If you need a relay to handle main power buy a continuous duty relay like the type that are used on the mopar mini vans. About 25 bucks.
Kenny

[boris_thespider]

I'm using the relay for starting only. I didn't think the relay would pull a lot of current and I was hoping that I could use the #14 AWG that I had on hand. Oldguy48 gave me the answer I was hoping for. Thanks all....

Mike