Hey folks, I need to install the wiring harness for my Alta/IPF lights (light bar already installed), and besides my basic ineptitude, there are a couple of challenging parts I would like help with:

1) Can't figure out how to breach the firewall. I've seen all the posts and read all the descriptions, but I still can't see how to get there from here

2) No sure about the right wire (power to brights) to power the relay. I could buy a multimeter but not having used one in 20+ years I'm sure I'd mess that up !

3) I want to replace the stock switch with toggle switches...it will require cutting the old ones off and properly connecting the new ones, as well as running lines under the center console to the side mirror adjustment panel that will of course require modification...

The second part is that I want to install an "oogah" horn on a separate switch (not connected to the the OEM horn). I think I got this but I'm a little fuzzy on relays, not to mention the same issue as #1 above (breaching the firewall), kind of why I'd like to do these at the same time.

I am looking for someone willing to help me (I'll bring the beer!), or at the very least recommend a local shop that I could take this to and not feel ripped off. The IPF harness and installation description are top notch, professional products...but when it comes to this kind of stuff, well I'm not !

Thanks!

 

Breaching the firewall is easy...you have a drill, right?

I can loan you a multimeter if it comes to that, but my experience with wiring harnesses is pretty much non-existent.

And I have no recommendations to make. You might try calling Jeff D and asking him for input.

 

I can't help you in anyway, shape or form. Well, other than helping you drink the beers you want to give away. However, where can I get copy of that KU badge? I know someone who would love it! She has a Jayhawk on the back of her current car - not sure if it will make it to the MINI or not....

 

I snagged a screen capture from the KU bookstore...it was an item for sale.

I'm going to He77 for sure!

 

you dont need a drill to breech the F wall

Just a sharp wire and push through the BIG rubber gasket at just above the sterring rod

Wrap your wire around that and pull it through

...

 

I know the gasket you're talking about, but I could barely see it, let alone get to it. I'll take another look. Thanks

PS: as for the drill, I'm pretty sure Andrew was kidding...

 

If you didn't buy your oogah horn yet, I got a coupon for one in an email from Harbor Freight this week. Let me know and I'll forward it to you (if I didn't delete it yet).

 

That would be great...was going to pull the trigger at there parking lot sale but had to rush out of town for a funeral and missed it.

Perfect timing ...

 

You can also breach the firewall from behind the battery. If you remove the battery, there are gromets there... just push through. Only problem is the confined working space.

 

Pretty sure he has a MCS.

 

I emailed you a link before I left work. $10 for a 12V oooga (their spelling) horn seems entirely reasonable.
If anyone else is near a Harbor Freight, here is the coupon link
Yes, Sin MINI has his battery located at the rear of the car.

 

Picked one up this afternoon. Thanks!

 

Is there a gap or do I need to punch a new hole through the gromit?

 

I've been thinking about buying one of those cheap but hopefully loud plastic truck horns...or rather a pair of them. I was wondering the best way to wire them into the stock horns so that all the horns go at once. Any suggestions on how to wire them and where to put them?

 

Yes ... punch a hole ...
The rubber will just about "seal" it back around the wire.

saftey wire or even a coat hanger (and a buddy) is the easiest combo.

If you peel the gromit back and put a wire between the gromit and firewall it has a chance of rubbing through the insulation

 

Thanks...I probably should have posted earlier that I was done with this mod

But thanks for jumping in!