There are multiple kinds of disconnect switches available on the market. These switches have two primary purposes — the first one is to preserve your battery power. Most modern vehicles, despite being turned off, still consume a minute amount of energy. This is not a problem for most regularly used cars— because every time you switch it on, the battery gets fully charged. But once a vehicle is stored or parked for extended periods, like three weeks or more, this minute consumption could actually drain your battery.
The best way to avoid this is to physically disconnect the battery from the system — but since it is quite inconvenient to go under the hood with a wrench when you park it, then a battery disconnect switch is a much better alternative.
Another purpose of the best battery disconnect switch is to protect your vehicle from being stolen. By cutting off the power from the motor, it becomes impossible to start the engine. There are multiple types of switches available for you to choose from. The simplest available is the knife blade switch, which consists of two copper posts connected by a brass lever. By simply lifting up or bringing down this lever, the circuit is either closed or opened. This type is the easiest to install.
Although it is usually directly placed on the battery. The most common one is the rotary switch, which allows you to turn it on or off by turning a knob — either on the control panel or mounted directly on the battery. A variation of this is the lever switch — wherein a lever is used instead of a knob. This is the preferred switch by most racers. The advancement of the lever-type switch led to the key and switch mechanism.
This type of disconnector is primarily used for anti-theft. A more advanced option for disconnecting your battery is the remote switch. This acts as a secondary disarming system for your vehicle and is also generally used as an anti-theft device. This device is designed for vehicles that utilize multiple battery systems, usually RVs. When the ignition is off, it physically isolates the secondary battery but automatically connects it to the system when the power is on.
That means it gets charged when the motor is running but is preserved when the car is parked. There are two common places that a battery disconnect switch is installed on — either directly on the battery post or on the dashboard or instrument panel. The only downside to it is that it can be quite inconvenient to access. However, if your primary goal is to protect against stealing, you could purchase the remote disconnector or the key and switch mechanism.
For the latter, you can place it in a more conspicuous position since it requires its own key to operate. By cutting off the power from the system, a would-be thief would have a harder time stealing your car. This is typically used by people who have recreational vehicles that they only use occasionally.
This can be accomplished in multiple ways — the simplest being a manual lever. Some switches use a screw-type knob to open the circuit, while some use an internal switch mechanism. The most advanced options are the ones that utilize remotely-controlled electromagnets or even automatic relays. Despite all these options and innovations, the basic concept is the same — cut the power by opening the circuit. The most common type would be the rotary switch, followed by the lever and knife switches, and then finally the remote and the relay switch.
There are also panel-mounted, and battery post mounted switches. There are also two different primary purposes — the first one being battery preservation and the second one as a carnap deterring device.
With a switch installed in your vehicle, you not only preserve its battery when stored or not in use, but it also acts as an anti-theft device. This is because most carnappers are always on the lookout for possible witnesses. The longer they have to start the stolen vehicle clandestinely, the greater their chances of being discovered. Here are some of the common questions that my friends ask me. Another brand that I noticed is the QuickCar Racing Products model — it seems to be preferred by professional racers.
I believe that they favor it over the others because it is easy to use and very reliable. Switches like these are typically installed on the positive terminal of the battery. This is because the negative terminal on most batteries also serves as the ground. However, some switches are designed to be installed on the negative side of the battery. You should read the instructions included in the packaging before doing any installation.
Like with any other item, a battery disconnect switch could fail. However, barring manufacturer errors or problems, this is a rare occurrence. Keep in mind that, although most electrical systems have a continuous ampere rating usually amps , a surge of power could happen during startup, up to 1, amps. There are multiple places where you can install these switches — the most common areas being the battery posts or under the instrument panel.
Some also install them in the engine case. However, it all depends on the vehicle and the owner. There is usually no fixed position to place these switches. Testing these switches requires that you have an ohmmeter. The resistance should drop to nearly zero if the switch is okay. These are common items and are generally available in automotive and department stores. Their personnel should know this, and they could actually help you choose the correct one for you.
If you see something better, do share it with me! Just keep in mind, always buy what you need. When in doubt, read your manual and always consult a professional automotive electrician. Fastronix Battery Disconnect Switch 3. Spurtar KC Disconnect Switch 5. Big-Autoparts Disconnect Switch 6. Audew 12VV Disconnect Switch 8. QuickCar Racing Disconnect Switch 9. Rated up to amps for a volt DC system Can be used either as a standalone or as a master switch Easy to install and simple to use Made with high-quality ABS plastic material Comes with complete parts for installation.
No auditory click to confirm battery connection. This switch is an excellent choice if your vehicle utilizes a 48 volt DC electrical system. It opens the circuit and isolates the battery from your electrical system — thereby extending its life when the vehicle is not in use. I did have some issues a couple of times, though. I returned it to the manufacturer and had it replaced, but it did delay my installation for a couple of days. This product is easy and straightforward to use, so much so that even a child can operate it.
Its high-capacity will also ensure that it will last the life of your vehicle. The only downside to this kind of switch is that it goes directly to your battery. Turning the knob isolates the battery from the system completely Can take up to amps of continuous load Compatible with most vehicles, including boats, RVs, off-roaders, and more Very easy to install Knob switch can be removed and hidden for added security. Can be quite inconvenient to access. This is the most economical option in the market available.
The only downside of this kind of switch is that it installs directly to your battery. Physically isolates the battery from the electrical system amp surge and amp continuous capacity Works for systems from 6 volts up to 24 volts DC Made from zinc alloy to avoid corrosion and increase durability Budget-friendly with high quality.
Connects directly to the battery and could be hard to access. This item is effortless to use, easy on the pocket, and a breeze to install.
If you want something that will cost little and you can easily hook-up yourself. Then this is the one for you. This car battery disconnect switch works with various voltages, which gives it the flexibility to be installed in different vehicle types. Furthermore, the guarantee offered by the manufacturer makes it an excellent value product. One thing, though — I have encountered some issues in which the supplied bolts were either too short or too long. Preserves battery levels during storage Easy to install — only a wrench is required Simple turning action to connect and disengage power Solidly built, made from durable and corrosion-resistant brass Comes at a very reasonable price.
Supplied bolts might need to be customized to fit some cars. If you need a battery isolating switch with a side post design, this easy-to-install equipment is the right choice.
Its excellent quality and reasonable price hit the sweet spot for switches. The one thing that I noticed, though, is that the bolts are a bit longer than required. Handles up to 1, amps of momentary current at 12 volts DC. Protected by a solid ABS plastic case Comes with a rear cover to avoid electrical shorts Clean and straightforward design makes it simple to use Waterproof design — can also be used on boats and other watercraft.
Longer than required bolts might require trimming. Whether you own a boat, an RV, or a truck, this multipurpose switch would help you isolate your battery and preserve its power. The easiest type of switch you can use is a simple terminal disconnect switch. This is very important!
Choosing a switch that is used, worn, or underrated can result in serious electrical problems or even fire. Do this first to avoid the possibility of electrical short circuiting or shock, neither of which are good for your vehicle or your body!
Carefully remove the battery clamp from the negative lead and save it should you want to remove your cutoff switch later. Clean your terminals and check the fluid levels in your battery.
Attach the battery cutoff switch to the negative terminal, and tighten securely. Reattach the positive lead to the positive battery terminal, and tighten securely. Following the instructions that come with your switch, reattach the negative lead to the switch, and tighten securely. Make sure the cutoff switch is turned off. Test the system by starting your vehicle. If all is works as expected, turn off the vehicle and engage the cutoff switch.
Make sure you still have power to all systems. Do not attempt to start your vehicle with the cutoff switch engaged, or you will blow the fuse. Wherever you put it. I suggest on the battery, as displayed in the article. No car comes with them installed. Yes No. Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0. Some electrical and mechanical knowledge is required. Please consult with an auto mechanic if you have any doubts at all about your abilities. Inexpensive, small chargers that plug into any powerpoint or cigarette lighter, can be purchased to keep computer memories and security codes from clearing. Or use a clip lead to keep the battery connected while you work - a light one will be enough to keep the computer going on standby, and will act like a fuse if you accidentally short something.
Disconnecting the battery on vehicles with digital electronics will erase the memory of clocks, radios, and computers, and may affect the way the car runs. If in doubt, consult with your vehicle's dealership before continuing. This technique will also work for carburetor icing if you happen to still have a carburetor but should not be tried by the timid.
A better solution prevention is to use gas line antifreeze and not run on the dregs of a gas tank in winter. Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4. Be careful of any new installation that requires splicing of wires. Any sloppy connections can result in a short. As a matter of precaution, always install a fuse as well.
Helpful 1 Not Helpful 3. If you are going to be away from your car for a major part of a northern winter, remove the battery from the car and store it out of the cold.
A charged lead-acid battery will not freeze. However, a discharged lead-acid battery and a lead acid battery will gradually discharge if the vehicle is not run will freeze and probably destroy the battery. Additionally, if a car battery will not start a car during very cold weather, removing the battery to a warm place will rejuvenate it to the point where it will probably start the car. The warming takes time and the battery will need to be replaced anyway unless you move south or wait for spring , but this may get you out of a jam if you have the patience to wait for the warming.
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