Can a Diode be Used to Power Lights from 2 Different Power Sources

Question:

I have an off-road bumper installed on my HD truck. I want the additional bumper lights to turn on when putting the truck in reverse as well as being able to power them with a switch in situations when the truck might be parked or off-roading. Would putting one of the RM-790 at the new light location help? Im assuming that the out would go to the new lights wired together into one harness and the inputs are the factory reverse wire and the wire coming from the switched source. Is that correct or is there something better for my situation? Thanks,

asked by: Ali A

Expert Reply:

You hit the nail right square on the head. Using diode # RM-790 as you have described will allow you to power the lights from 2 different sources (one at a time) without back feeding. It would be best to mount the diode where it is protected from the elements.

We also have 10 amp on/off toggle switch # PK34513 that you could mount somewhere on the truck. One wire would go to the vehicle battery and the other would go to one of the inputs on the diode.

expert reply by: Michael H