Need help finding key switch hot wire. Trying to install Warn 3.0ci winch into '03 Foreman 450. Installed the handle bar switch, routed the wire harness back to contactor. Need to splice the wire harness red 20ga wire to a key controlled electrical wire. The wire should only have power when the key is in the "on" position.

I don't particularly want to go cutting into the key wire harness searching for this hot wire unless I have to. I would have thought there would be a connector on the wire harness somedwhere ready to accept this red 20 ga winch wire. If not I will cut into the harness, anyone know what the correct wire color is for this? I am sure some of you guys have installed winches on your machine. Would appreciate any good suggestions.

 

I figured someone with a quad in your era would reply, but since no one has yet...

Does your machine have a cig lighter plug? If so, a lot of people find that to be a handy place to tap for keyed power. Using solder and shrink tube would result in a connection that won't corrode or pull apart.

Also, welcome to the forum.

 

Thanks much JeffinTD for your reply,

A most excellent suggestion. I do have power plug on headlight housing that is connected to ignition switch. I will do this. Sure beats cutting into the wire harness mucking around looking for a hot key controlled ignition wire. Isn't it odd tho that there is not a ready made plug somewhere here ready to accept this rather universal connection?
Thanks again,
JJ

 

There very well may be a spot in the power distribution box for keyed power accessories, but the wire for the cig lighter socket is easy to get to, fused, and non-critical...which makes it pretty popular.