Need Switches

[WillieB]

i ran across some huge, surplus diodes which I intend to use to convert an old 220 A/C buzz box to D/C. This is a fun project so I don't really want to spend a fortune on it. I have all the components except two DPDT switches to switch from A/C to D/C and from D/C + to D/C -

Where can I find something suitable, either toggle switches or wafer switches.

[mla2ofus]

Probably tough to find, but look for an old AC/DC buzzbox that leaked out all the smoke and use the switches from it.
Mike

[Sandy]

Wild shot--------a truck repair shop, heavy equipement shop, battery shop. They make heavy rotory switches for switching from 12volt run to 24 volt start, kicking in bank #2, charge bank#1, charge bank#2, things like that. I've seen a three position switch labeled "a", "b", "c" where you need to label you own input/output. Just never paid any attention to where they get them. I'm sure they aren't cheap. They mount them in the floorboard of the cab where the driver just reaches down and turns the knob. Knob and labeling/retaining plate above the floorboard and lugs below the floorboard. If they will handle start and charge amps they should handle what you are going to get outta that.

Other than that you are stuck with a 12volt source to operate automotive type starter relays. They get kinda pricey too.

[mla2ofus]

Been thinking on this. You could use heavy male-female connectors like the old welders had for changing polarity etc. You'd need 4 females and 2 males. 2 females for AC & grd, 2 females for DC+ & DC-. Don't know what the cost would be but can't be anymore than switches.
Another thought is see what the cost of a switch like the one on my Miller thunderbolt is. I think it handles line amps, not sure tho.
Mike

[Sandy]

Heres the type of switch I was thinking about. If I had room I'd put one on the face of my mig just for giggles. I guess you'd need two just because the work clamp needs switched too.

http://www.charlesindustries.com/main/ma_bat_switches.html

http://www.bluesea.com/dept.asp?d_id=18015&l1=7459&l2=7492

http://www.go2marine.com/category.do?no=13166

[WillieB]

Tnx, Sandy, I thought about those, too but they are $ 40.00 each at West Marine. That's more than I have in the old welder. I have enough odds and ends in my bag of tricks to build a 12 VDC power supply so, unless something turns up at a flea market soon, I think I'll go with the Auto Solenoids.