Date:         Thu, 31 May 2012 10:03:04 -0700
Reply-To:     Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: New radio= dead battery?  Install a switch
Comments: To: David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Okay, I'll jump in on this.  I installed a SPDT toggle switch (
http://www.kpsec.freeuk.com/components/switch.htm ) and used it to change
the radio's power source between "always on" and "ignition switched".
Drill one hole in the dash next to the radio for the switch (use a nice one
like they use in old sportscars) and it's easy to wire.  The switch is used
when parked to power the radio, and has the advantage of not needing to
leave the key in the ignition.  This was on my '84 that did not have the key
buzzer, but I'm going to do it on  my '85 too since it a better solution
IMHO.

Stuart
'85 Westy

-----Original Message-----

VW's theory on the radio is that if you're too dumb to remember to turn it
off, you should get paid by running your battery down.  Notice the absence
of the ACC position on the ignition switch.  I've had to train myself to
always turn the radio off, never down.*

Some people want to use the key-in switch to power the radio, but the switch
isn't hefty enough to do that reliably.  However the switch can power a
relay that would power the radio.

*Just like their theory that *you* put the turn signal on, you should bloody
well know which way it's pointing.  And their theory that if you don't know
where the headlight switch is in the dark, how did you turn the lights on?
It is der user's responsibility...  On the other hand, no VW driver can be
trusted not to jam the starter by trying to start a running engine, leading
to "New-VW-Owner's-Sprained-Thumb"
injuries the first time the motor doesn't start on the first try.

Yours,
David