Hey... I have a couple projects for my car that require me to wire in some switches... for things ranging from amplifier remote cutoff and fuel pump kills.... I will be installing relays for all switches, but....

My question is whether can use 'non automotive' switches from radio shack ?

I don't want to use their big, nasty 4x4 truck switches in my tiny car.... all of the other switches are not rated for DC apps on the package... so I have one button that has these ratings:

Mini Switch
SPDT*Momentary
Contacts rated 3A at 125VAC/1A at 250VAC

How would this switch work in a 12VDC app ? Are they safe to use or better than the automotive ones ? I don't want a short or a burnt switch.

 

I just wanted to tell you, if you decide to hook up a switch for your fuel pump,, pick a good one, my friend hooked up a switch he got sumplace (probably radioshack) and during cold weather or in the morning his car had problems starting.. We later foundout it was because something inside the switch was cold not giving good contact.

 

Actually, my g/f's teg had a fuel pump kill switch installed by previous owner....with no relay and it would get HOT HOT HOT... and eventually started doing what you're talking about.... I had to take it out.

Anyone on the VAC switches on the VDC apps ??