Date: Fri, 22 May 2015 21:33:39 -0400
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Ignition/starter switch failures
In-Reply-To: <vanagon%2015052201040408@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
Amperage alone is not the only consideration for switch failures. A starter
solenoid is an inductive load. Not only is there a current spike when the
switch is closed, there can be huge voltage spike from the coil when the
switch is opened. This is how an ignition coil works. Since the switch was
not designed to operate this starter there could be a characteristic of that
solenoid that could be causing the switch to fail. A proper relay with
consideration for that spike (capacitor, diode) could be the fix for you.
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Ed McLean
Sent: Friday, May 22, 2015 1:04 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Ignition/starter switch failures
Follow up to my post that started this very informative thread.
Yesterday I purchased a Kostal switch from a list vendor.
I have load reduction relays on the headlight circuits and if this switch
fails I will put a relay in the starter solenoid circuit. Does anyone know
how much current the 2002 TDI gear drive starter solenoid draws?
My present switch is failing in the starter solenoid circuit as all my
switches in the past have failed. Some of the last switches I used were
Meyle or looked exactly like Meyle to me even though they were purchased
from list vendors or from local branches of national auto parts chains with
different names.
In my very recent investigation, a clerk at one of the national chains told
me over the phone they could supply a superior part from Borg Warner with a
5 year warranty for $39. This is the first 5 year warranty on an electrical
part I have ever heard of but for that price they could afford to replace
the switch several times and still make a profit. This warranty may be true
but I suspect the clerk made a mistake in quoting the warranty period. In
any case, I prefer to have a superior quality part than a fantastic
warranty.
However, I do admit enjoying several times the lifetime warranty on the
rebuilt steering rack I purchased for $199 in 1995...
Thanks to all who contributed comments to this thread.
Ed