Where did y'all find your kill switches? - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

blowncopcar · 03-27-2013, 09:12 PM

Like the title says, where have you guys gotten your actual kill switches from? The push button ones I have I either have to push twice or are closed switches... Now ive been to all the auto parts stores and Lowes. I'm thinking of just going to a toggle switch... Unless you guys think a toggle switch is a bad idea or can tell me where a good open push-button switch is like the ones in the write-ups. Thanks for your help!!

Shortie771 · 03-27-2013, 11:35 PM

HERE is a great thread with a lot of information about kill switches. You can probably find most, if not all of the things you need to make your own switch at RadioShack or any electronics store. I hope it helps.

Sven7 · 03-28-2013, 12:16 AM

I picked up a "momentary off" switch but haven't installed it yet. It basically opens the circuit when you press it, then reverts back to a closed circuit. In terms of rudimentary hypermiling, it kills the engine and turns the ignition back on for you.

Got mine at Menards. Radio Shack will have them.

California98Civic · 03-28-2013, 02:28 AM

Radio Shack.

baldlobo · 03-28-2013, 03:47 AM

dead microwave in the trash; normally closed micro-switch.

California98Civic · 03-28-2013, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by baldlobo

dead microwave in the trash; normally closed micro-switch.

+1

brucepick · 03-28-2013, 10:47 AM

Mine is an on-off toggle on left side of dash, low down. It was in the car when I bought it, had been installed to control some lame fog lights which I've since removed. I've seen these switches in parts stores, and probably also at Radio Shack. It had an internal light once but the bulb died.

I like the toggle. Flip it off to kill. I don't have to keep my finger on it. Flip it back on again after engine is stopped. That way it will restart whenever I bump it or key start it. It has a long toggle handle so it's easy to swat with a finger or two whenever I want.

Diesel_Dave · 03-28-2013, 11:32 AM

I just used an on/off lightswitch from Lowe's. If it wasn't so obvious in it's current position I figure it makes a marveleous anti-theft device :-)

BTW, you can but momentary push button swithces on eBay 2 for a dollar (including shipping):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-x-MOMENTAR...item3a6f2c3052

basjoos · 03-28-2013, 11:39 AM

I started with a toggle switch, but then changed to a momentary pushbutton. With the pushbutton, you hold it down for a second or two, then release and the engine is ready to bump start. If something comes up and you have to prematurely release the pushbutton, your engine is either stopped and ready to bump start or it is still idling.

The problem with a toggle switch is you flip it off, then if something comes up (traffic or passenger) that diverts your attention, it may cause you to forget to flip the toggle back on, then when you bump start, you get the dead engine sag until you remember that you forgot to flip the toggle back on and can flip it back on to get your engine power back. If you needed that engine power instantly to get out of a developing traffic situation, those seconds with a dead spinning engine could cause you some anxious moments.

mozul · 03-28-2013, 01:05 PM

Mine is a SPDT Miniature momentary switch I got at the local Fry's electronics. (on) off (on) is on the packaging to indicate it is momentary. I push it down to kill the motor and up to restart it. If I choose not to bump it. I don't like to restart with the key switch as that cuts out my stereo.