I would like to use my unused rear defroster switch as a simple on off switch for my headlight motors (without using a relay) rather than buy a rocker switch. I have read in an archived thread about modifying the spring so that it will stay in the on position. Can anyone shed some light on the pin out of the actual switch itself? I would like to know which pins are ground (I assume there are two of them because I think there may be two indicator lights in the switch) and which one is power.
Any help is appreciated.
-Van
[This message has been edited by VanGTP5000 (edited 12-28-2017).]
The defogger switch powers a relay that has a solid state timer circuit build in that de-energises the defogger after approximately ten minutes. The timer is located on the brake pedal bracket, has five wires (A-ppl/wht, B-lt blu, C-org/blk, D-blk, E-pnk/blk). The switch has five wires (A-pnk/blk, B-lt blu, C-ppl/wht, D-blk, P-gry). Switch power is A, B goes to load. I would suggest disconnecting the defogger timer relay and using the switch to control a relay for your load. Connect the energized relay voltage out to the ppl/wht wire from the timer relay plug to retain the 'ON' light on the defogger switch.
[This message has been edited by olejoedad (edited 01-02-2018).]
Thank you very much for taking the time to respond Olejoedad. I especially appreciate the fact that you went back in and edited your original post to explain. I will take some time to digest this info. Hopefully I can make this work thanks to your help.
The defogger switch powers a relay that has a solid state timer circuit build in that de-energises the defogger after approximately ten minutes. The timer is located on the brake pedal bracket, has five wires (A-ppl/wht, B-lt blu, C-org/blk, D-blk, E-pnk/blk). The switch has five wires (A-pnk/blk, B-lt blu, C-ppl/wht, D-blk, P-gry). Switch power is A, B goes to load. I would suggest disconnecting the defogger timer relay and using the switch to control a relay for your load. Connect the energized relay voltage out to the ppl/wht wire from the timer relay plug to retain the 'ON' light on the defogger switch.
Is this the pinout that corresponds to the info you have given?
It doesn't appear that I can convert this switch into the on/off switch i wanted it for. I was hoping to cut the white wire from the headlight switch and put the defroster switch in between the two sides of it. Allowing me to turn off the headlight switch without the buckets going down until I hit the additional defroster switch. I haven't figured out a way to do it. I may just have to buy a simple on/off rocker switch to put in its place.
-Van
[This message has been edited by VanGTP5000 (edited 01-03-2018).]
Can you gut a defroster switch, then install a micro rocker inside, so the original switch is just a cover that pushes it? It would still look stock from the outside, but operate like you want it to.
As noted, the oem switch is on a timer far as I remember. Just replace it with a new rocker on/off switch. I think I used that spot for my driving lite switch on my Ferrari kit.
Its true about the defroster. I had 3 Fieros in Ohio and never used the window defogger ever. Engine heat on the front exhaust manifold melted ice and defrosted faster than the oem defroster would.
I used the window heating grid for my radio antenna, like a lot of newer cars now do. It worked fine for AM and FM radio.
I had been trying to see if I could wire the defroster switch in a different way so as to not need to use a standard on/off rocker switch but thank you for the replies.
I had a similar issue with a Tonneau Cover release on my El Camino. I solved it by using a "Latching Relay" I bought at Radio Shack. Momentary power from the switch will shift the relay to on, and it latches there. Momentary power again, and it shifts to off and latches there. Been working now for over 5 yrs with no issues.
I didnt know Radio Shack existed anymore. All around here closed up years ago. I use to spend $500-$1000 a month buying devices and parts there for my own and customers projects. Now I have to hope Autozone or Walmart has what I need.
