budd

iTrader: (5)

I know it may sound a dumb question, but what if any are the benefits of using ‘aircraft’ style flip switches, I need to fit some auxiliary switches for my bosch fuel pump, fan override, rain light etc and noticed that lots of race/rally cars use this type of switch but I’ve no idea why, can anyone shed any light of why they are used instead of normal switches?

mystery_machine

iTrader: (1)

would it not be so you don't switch the switch by mistake?

alcazar

iTrader: (2)

As above, plus they look high tech, plus they often have higher rated contacts than rocker switches which is not a problem if you use relays.

I always paid a bit extra for genuine 15A rated Lucas switches with the metal/plastic levers, rather than cheap toggle switches when building rally electrics.

budd

iTrader: (5)

thanks for the replies,
So no real benefit other than looking cool, although I take a point about using high quaility 15A rated switches rather than cheap plastic rockers.
Re using the aircraft switches, I've never actually used any so don't know how the covers effect the operation of the switch, do you have to lift the coloured cover to access the actual switch therefore protecting it from been accidentally operated or does the coloured cover its self operate the switch in some way?

alcazar

iTrader: (2)

The former: lift cover, operate switch.

budd

iTrader: (5)

that makes sense. I think I'll put one on the master fuel pump and use normal toggles on the others

Arch

iTrader: (59)

Also easier and quicker to switch something off, just hit the cover and it operates the switch as the cover closes.
On aircraft they are used to stop the drivers opertaing switches they shoudnt normally touch by mistake. Also to warn them that if the flap on a switch is up thats not in a normal position.