Switch Preparation
The switch included in the axial, radial, and bay switch kits requires preparation before assembling the switch kit. A commercial momentary slide switch is used that provides a positive electrical connection when held in the closed position by an outside accessible arming screw. Note: the switch is a single pole double throw style (SPDT), so it can be used to turn things on or off depending on how it is wired - the center terminal is the common connection. This preparation guide assumes a closed connection when the arming screw is installed.
General Switch Preparation
(Switch Preparation PDF Document)
What you need for this
- Switch, green wire from axial or radial switch kit or your choice, 3/32" heat shrink tubing, and 1/8" heat shrink tubing from a radial or axial switch kit (1/8" is not used in the bay switch kit).
- 20-30 watt soldering iron
- rosin core solder
- wire stripper
- pliers for crimping
- heat gun
For axial and radial switches
Step 1- Cut two 2-1/2" lengths of the green wire, cut two 3/8" lengths of the 3/32" heat shrink tubing, and two 3/8" lengths of the 1/8" heat shrink tubing. Install switch (lugs up) in a Wiring Assistant or other helpful 3rd hand.
Step 2 - Strip 3/16" of insulation off each end of the two green wires. Insert the the wires through the solder lugs, then fold the wire back on itself to 90 degrees as shown
For the bay switch
Step 1- Cut two 3/8" lengths of the 3/32" heat shrink tubing. Install switch (lugs up) in a Wiring Assistant or other helpful 3rd hand.
Step 2 - Strip 3/16" of insulation off the switch end of the your connection wires. Insert the wires through the solder lugs, then fold the wire back on itself to 90 degrees as shown
Step 3 - Touch the soldering iron tip to the lug and wire. Apply rosin core solder to the lug and wire until the solder melts and fills the lug & wire as shown.
Step 4 - Remove switch from Wiring Assistant and slide two 3/8" long sections of 3/32" heat shrink over the switch lugs and use a heat gun to shrink the tubing to the lug.
This completes the bay switch preparation
Continue to step 5 for the axial and radial switches
Step 5 - Install switch back into a Wiring assistant, slide two 3/8" lengths of 1/8" heat shrink on the wires, and crimp two #2 18-22 AWG terminals on the ends.
Step 6 - Touch the soldering iron tip to the terminal and wire. Apply rosin core solder to the terminal and wire until the solder melts and fills the crimp & wire as shown.
Step 7 - Slide the two 3/8" lengths of 1/8" heat shrink tubing down over the end of the terminals and use a heat gun to shrink the tubing to the terminals.
