Need some help selecting a big cutoff switch.

[That Crazy Squirrel]

I have a bunch of these lying around.

http://ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/CANDACE88G/2010-12-18_171620_ford_starter_solon_next.jpg

Would that do the trick or is there a difference? It would be nice to use a stock piece.

What's it rated at?

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Good question. It is a stock starter solenoid for the same F250 I am installing everything on.

 

[That Crazy Squirrel]

Good question. It is a stock starter solenoid for the same F250 I am installing everything on.

Generally, those are rated for about 100 amps, but not continuous duty. If you keep it energized too long they tend to burn out the coil.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

So much for that idea. So I have to look for a hotter solenoid.

 

[That Crazy Squirrel]

So much for that idea. So I have to look for a hotter solenoid.

The key word there is "usually". See if you can look up the actual specs on the ones you have. Might be different.

Or, if you don't mind possibly "wasting" one, hook it up and energize it from a car battery and leave it on awhile, see what happens. Put it on a safe surface though, and put a fuse inline so if it shorts the coils you don't smoke the wiring. If it can handle being energized for an hour without getting too warm you're probably good to go with it, unless the winch draws a lot more than 100 amps.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I like that idea.

 

[Kennyray]

Maybe this is what you need.

New 500A Amp DC 12V High Current Relay Contactor Power Motor Control on Off OT8G | eBay

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Simple, cheap and high output, jut how like my women.

 

[That Crazy Squirrel]

Maybe this is what you need.

New 500A Amp DC 12V High Current Relay Contactor Power Motor Control on Off OT8G | eBay

Rated 200a continuous. Looks good!

Now, as long as it stays energized once the winch starts drawing a lot of current and drops the voltage it'll be fine.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I believe that is the answer. I am glad I asked the questions. Now all I have to do is locate a suitable switch and a location to install it. The other issue is the fuse. I hope to find an empty spot in the stock fuse block. That will help with the OE look I am going for.