How hot will relay get?

[Convict1997]

I rewired my lights yesterday because one of my relays shorted out. I have them mounted on the inside of the drivers fender just behind the battery. I think the relay may have gotten wet. This time I ran all 12ga wire, except for the line coming from the switch which is either 14ga or 16ga. To keep the relays dry I picked up some ballons and cut the ends off. Then I streched the ballons over the relays so they cover the tabs and about 3" of wire. Will the relays get hot enough to melt the ballons? What other ideas do you guys have to keep the relays dry?

 

[bp1506]

You could mount the relay under the dash somewhere.

 

[Bill Kemp]

I dont think they get hot enough to melt a balloon. Wouldnt hurt much if they did.
Under the dash is a poor place for relays. One of the reasons all OEM relays are under the hood. Keeps the higher voltage/amps out of the passenger compartment. Mounting closer to the battery also helps with volt drop on a longer run.

 

[seth247]

if they do then somethings wrong. they shouldnt get any hotter than slightly warm to the touch, like a cell phone when your on it for a while.

 

[bp1506]

I have relays under the dash, i thought as long as they have an inline fuse it was not too big of a deal.

 

[Bill Kemp]

IMO it's a case of good, better, best.
Best; being as close to the battery as possible.
One of the reasons for putting it under the hood is to keep the higher load of amps out of the passenger compartment in case of a short. Wires burning under the hood are better than under the dash. Here is some relay info. http://www.rallylights.com/hella/Relays.asp
Lots more on line if you want to look.

 

[Sandy]