Looking for dimmer circut for 1997 Suburban

Post by Pj » Fri Dec 06, 2002 2:17 pm

I am going to be installing a light control head that can be dimmed via the trucks interior light dimmer swtich. Does anyone know which line I should be tapping into and the best access point? I will be using a Whelen MPC01 controller if that helps.

Thanks.

fire-medic8104 · Post by **fire-medic8104** » Fri Dec 06, 2002 8:12 pm

Doesn't a suburban have a seperate dimmer switch? If it does, just use a volmeter and look for a voltage drop while rotating the switch. I believe these only use 3 or 4 wires.

Post by Pj » Sat Dec 07, 2002 6:04 am

Yup it does. I haven't ripped the dashboard apart yet, nor did I want too until I had all the info (its such a nice truck!)

jim · Post by **jim** » Sat Dec 07, 2002 8:05 am

Most GMs have a 5A fuse in the interior fuse panel that is dedicated to the dimmer circuit- and yes, the fuse is on the variable voltage line. There are also many GMs with a tap in the fuse box marked "int" or "inst" that is where you need to go. If all else fails, pull the 0-12V from the lamp in the ashtray.

Post by Pj » Sat Dec 07, 2002 8:18 am

Good thought. I haven't noticed or looked for that circut on the panel. A couple of the other ones will make for a good relay switch.

copcarguy · Post by **copcarguy** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 9:13 am

Most vehicles have a panel light for the ashtray. The ashtray is already fused and located in the center of the vehicle. T-tap off the panel light hot, usually orange or yellow. The other wire going to the light is usually black (ground).

jim · Post by **jim** » Sun Dec 08, 2002 1:37 pm

Hmmmm. Isn't that what I just said????