Foretravel Owners' Forum

Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Tech Talk => Topic started by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 18, 2016, 01:09:53 pm

Title: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 18, 2016, 01:09:53 pm
I am doing a bit of revision to my video monitoring system on my 2002 U270.  I discovered a blank on the dash next to the Boost Switch, as well as two more blanks on the other side of the steering wheel.  There is even an extra blank in the panel under the driver's window, all the same size.  I'd like to use at least one of these blanks and pop in a new switch (not dremel the blank out for a smaller switch).

I'm usually fairly good at searching things out, but I cannot find a source of the switches that are the right size to just snap in.  I can find "full sized" switches that fit a .83" by 1.45" opening, but the existing Foretravel switch openings all seem to be closer to .83" x 1.80".  Can someone point me to a source for the right sized switches?  I don't want labeled switches like Foretravel uses, as my purpose doesn't fit any of their labeling. 

What I am doing is separating the two videos:  The Audit 9 tank monitors, etc., will continue to show up in the old dash screen when the existing switch is turned on (the Javelina monitor has long been replaced), but I am moving the rear camera output to the "radio" screen and powering it separately. 

I have replaced the standard radio with a video monitor that has the ability to force the radio screen to display the camera when I feed +12v to the trigger wire (usually powered by the reverse wire when the radio is in a car).  So I would like to use a similar switch to do that.  SPST, powering the camera modulator and the radio trigger wire when energized.  I'm sure we've all been in the position of wanting to turn on the camera quickly and the radio screen has better resolution than the monitor I am using for the tank levels.  With this configuration, I will also avoid powering up the Audit9 computer simultaneously with the camera,just to see behind me. 

Thanks for any help!

Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Michelle on February 18, 2016, 01:45:38 pm
I show the switch that was used for the Javalina power is this one

Carling Technologies RA901-RB-B-0-N (https://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Carling-Technologies/RA901-RB-B-0-N?qs=4EnmSMTL3HMvOQA0sq8GrQ%3D%3D)

Still looking for the other possibilities....
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Michelle on February 18, 2016, 02:04:26 pm
The bigger ones like the Boost switch are SWF/Britax 5xx.xxx series; here's one place that has them

5XX.XXX SWF/Britax switch: nwrvsupply.com (http://www.nwrvsupply.com/category/2438.html?CatListingOffset=24&Offset=24&Per_Page=12&Sort_By=disp_order)
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 18, 2016, 02:25:40 pm
The bigger ones like the Boost switch are SWF/Britax 5xx.xxx series; here's one place that has them

5XX.XXX SWF/Britax switch: nwrvsupply.com (http://www.nwrvsupply.com/category/2438.html?CatListingOffset=24&Offset=24&Per_Page=12&Sort_By=disp_order)
These "Britax" switches seem to be a UK item?  Thanks Michelle.  Shipping is more than the switch, but I do see they have one labeled as "Rear Camera".
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Michelle on February 18, 2016, 02:43:42 pm

Did some more digging.  You can also try searching for Valeo SWF http://www.rometruckparts.com/catalogs/SWF%20ROCKER%20&%20LENS.pdf
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Jim Frerichs on February 18, 2016, 05:57:32 pm
Link does not seem to work. 
Jim
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Dave M (RIP) on February 18, 2016, 07:08:23 pm
Jim, the link works on my iPhone.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: GKCigar on February 18, 2016, 07:21:30 pm
The link works on my computer using Chrome browser.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Roger & Susan in Home2 on February 18, 2016, 08:18:44 pm
One of my great spots to go hunting for "things" is Axman Surplus in St Paul, MN.  Axman Surplus (http://www.ax-man.com)  They have one or more of everything.  I recently found rocker switches there that fit in the empty spaces in the driver's side switch panel.  They were less than $2.  I have found the 30 amp relays used in many places in our FTs along with the plug in wired sockets for about $3 each.

Take the cut out size and go hunting.  These are not that uncommon.

If you want on/off switches the same size as most if the ones in your FT check these.  Brand new, cut off the 120v bulb socket and for 50¢ you have a great switch. As I recall, they have a 0 and a 1 mark on the switch.

Switch and Light bulb Socket – Axman Surplus (http://www.ax-man.com/collections/switches/products/switch-and-light-bulb-socket)
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 18, 2016, 09:51:40 pm
Thanks, Roger!  I don't know if that will be the right size, but I love the link and bought a bunch of odd junk while I was there.  I know a temperature switch (67-85 degrees) HAS to come in handy with some future invention...for 95 cents anyway!  I got a couple of the other switches too. 
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Roger & Susan in Home2 on February 18, 2016, 11:09:21 pm
If you need one they have an iron lung from the 50's.  Web site is new and has a very small farction of what is in the store.  I can spend a lot of time in there just wondering what things are or worse, what projects I can dream up for them.  I stop in when I am up in that part of town.  Sometime later I will remember seeing something there when thinking about how to do something.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 19, 2016, 08:29:03 pm
Did some more digging.  You can also try searching for Valeo SWF http://www.rometruckparts.com/catalogs/SWF%20ROCKER%20&%20LENS.pdf
I have connected with these folks and am awaiting a price quote for a couple switches.  I'll report back!
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Roger & Susan in Home2 on February 19, 2016, 09:50:58 pm
Brad, lots of LED illuminated 20 amp switches on Amazon, most have no hole size dimensions.

This one has a cut out size of 0.82" x 1.57".
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GH5PWY?ref_=pe_623860_70668520http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GH5PWY?ref_=pe_623860_70668520

I am trying to get hole sizes on other choices.

When the OEM switches are so hard to find and so expensive then an easier to find less expensive alternative might be the best way to go.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 19, 2016, 10:29:48 pm
Brad, lots of LED illuminated 20 amp switches on Amazon, most have no hole size dimensions.

This one has a cut out size of 0.82" x 1.57".
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GH5PWY?ref_=pe_623860_70668520http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GH5PWY?ref_=pe_623860_70668520

I am trying to get hole sizes on other choices.

When the OEM switches are so hard to find and so expensive then an easier to find less expensive alternative might be the best way to go.

Well, I know the right hole size is 44.1mm x 22.1mm  (1.736" x 0.87").  Seems standard in trucks, but I have so far only found them made in Germany or France...with most sales in the UK.    The guys at Rome responded quickly by emailing a price-less catalog...but they have not yet responded with any prices. 
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Roger & Susan in Home2 on February 19, 2016, 10:46:53 pm
These switches come in a variety of colors.

Amazon.com: E Support Car Marine Green LED Toggle Switch Dash 4pin Pack of... (http://www.amazon.com/Support-Marine-Green-Toggle-Switch/dp/B00VV2JM1E/ref=pd_sbs_263_7?ie=UTF8&dpID=51VIdb35RkL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=02QMEGNN005NCQ3671S4)

Seller sent me these dimensions for the hole size.  .85" wide x 1.46" long.

There is a truck supply shop in NAC that seems to have everything.
Kelly's
4808 South St, Nacogdoches, TX 75964
(936) 569-0018
kellystruckparts.com

Worth a call.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 20, 2016, 04:04:52 pm
I did pop one switch out this morning and saw it was stamped "511.005", but there was no brand label on it at all.  I have been searching while waiting for the folks mentioned above to get back to me.  There seems to be several brands (Eaton, Valeo, etc.) but no simple pricing anywhere...just tons of pdf data sheets.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: craneman on February 20, 2016, 07:15:28 pm
I did pop one switch out this morning and saw it was stamped "511.005", but there was no brand label on it at all.  I have been searching while waiting for the folks mentioned above to get back to me.  There seems to be several brands (Eaton, Valeo, etc.) but no simple pricing anywhere...just tons of pdf data sheets.
There is one on Ebay they want $17.00 for it and it has a cruise label. They are selling it as a Oshkosh rocker switch
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 20, 2016, 07:41:11 pm
I found about 6 different 511 rocker switchesfrom a seller on Ebay listed as "New old stock" for Fleetwood RVs.  There are 3 of the 511.010 switches (a lightning bolt on them) left from the seller after I got done cleaning her out. 
$4.25 each, with free shipping. 
This should be an illuminated SPST 12 volt switch, if I have read the catalog correctly.

I haven't seen them yet in person, but the "511" seems to indicate the right sized switch for us, and they look correct.
New Fleetwood RV 12 Volt Dash Switch Auxilary Part 511 010 | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Fleetwood-RV-12-Volt-Dash-Switch-Auxilary-Part-511-010-/131693500486?hash=item1ea98b5846:g:c9gAAOSwL7VWjA1F&vxp=mtr)
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: craneman on February 20, 2016, 07:50:58 pm
I found about 6 different 511 rocker switchesfrom a seller on Ebay listed as "New old stock" for Fleetwood RVs.  There are 3 of the 511.010 switches (a lightning bolt on them) left from the seller after I got done cleaning her out. 
$4.25 each, with free shipping. 
This should be an illuminated SPST 12 volt switch, if I have read the catalog correctly.

I haven't seen them yet in person, but the "511" seems to indicate the right sized switch for us, and they look correct.
New Fleetwood RV 12 Volt Dash Switch Auxilary Part 511 010 | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Fleetwood-RV-12-Volt-Dash-Switch-Auxilary-Part-511-010-/131693500486?hash=item1ea98b5846:g:c9gAAOSwL7VWjA1F&vxp=mtr)
I grabbed the last 3 Thanks for the link
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 20, 2016, 08:16:30 pm
I grabbed the last 3 Thanks for the link
I hope they are the right ones...99% sure.  I will be curious to see if the little lenses pop out and can be replaced as I saw they were inexpensive. But, if not, the "dome light" I bought does sort of look like a spread out Camera view...and the "Radio" one is a note, just like one I had found in a catalog.  Those are the two items I am adding.  Was worth the risk/expense, anyway.

In my rewire, I wanted to be able to turn the new radio on/off without having to turn on the key...but did not want the 6.2" screen illuminated 24/7.  I think the old Ford radio FT had put in was hooked to a constant 12V, but only had a small clock lit up 24/7 if it was off.

It took a little metal work (out of a $6.50 piece of heavy angle aluminum) to get it mounted solidly but this radio works fine in the old hole.  Amazon.com: BOSS AUDIO BV9364B Double-DIN 6.2 inch Touchscreen DVD Player... (http://smile.amazon.com/BOSS-BV9364B-Double-DIN-Touchscreen-Bluetooth/dp/B00I9ASGOK)
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: craneman on February 20, 2016, 08:35:12 pm
I hope they are the right ones...99% sure.  I will be curious to see if the little lenses pop out and can be replaced as I saw they were inexpensive. But, if not, the "dome light" I bought does sort of look like a spread out Camera view...and the "Radio" one is a note, just like one I had found in a catalog.  Those are the two items I am adding.  Was worth the risk/expense, anyway.

In my rewire, I wanted to be able to turn the new radio on/off without having to turn on the key...but did not want the 6.2" screen illuminated 24/7.  I think the old Ford radio FT had put in was hooked to a constant 12V, but only had a small clock lit up 24/7 if it was off.

It took a little metal work (out of a $6.50 piece of heavy angle aluminum) to get it mounted solidly but this radio works fine in the old hole.  Amazon.com: BOSS AUDIO BV9364B Double-DIN 6.2 inch Touchscreen DVD Player... (http://smile.amazon.com/BOSS-BV9364B-Double-DIN-Touchscreen-Bluetooth/dp/B00I9ASGOK)

The last 2 radios I installed wouldn't let me tie the memory to the power on, to use without ignition I had to install a separate switch on both of them to work around the issue. I wonder if the new stuff is better than the old stuff.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on February 20, 2016, 08:47:38 pm
The last 2 radios I installed wouldn't let me tie the memory to the power on, to use without ignition I had to install a separate switch on both of them to work around the issue. I wonder if the new stuff is better than the old stuff.

This one works fine.  I powered the heavy Yellow (standard) with the old Radio 12v+, and then temporarily brought the Red accessory/illumination wire out in front of the dash.  I touch it to a 12 volt wire, and it lights up.  The Yellow wire maintains the time and stations, but you don't see anything on the screen until the red is powered.  Thus one of my switches will essentially turn on the red wire.
There is another trigger wire from the radio that when you add 12v+ to it, it will force the display to show the rear camera.  I don't yet know if the radio will keep playing when that happens...we shall see.  The FT is in the garage with the dash apart and I have a couple months before we'll take it out for the summer.  Once these switches arrive, I'll get on all of it.
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Rich Bowman on March 04, 2016, 01:34:18 pm
Sorry for the late reply-I have been traveling.  Another option is direct from FOT.  I got one last summer for under $20 w/shipping.  Choice of color on the lighted insert.

Rich
Title: Re: Source for new dash switches/switchplates?
Post by: Brad & Christine Slaughter on March 04, 2016, 07:26:52 pm
Sorry I didn't get back to this thread.  The switches I found on ebay were the correct ones and they are mounted in the dash!  I did find a source at Rome Truck Parts.  The email is to Will Kent:  will@rometruckparts.com  He responded that the switches are $18.73 each and they have hundreds of lenses at $2.08 each.

When no one suggested Foretravel earlier, I just expected they were higher priced.  I've not had good luck with pricing there. 

These are 511 switches, and they have many different structures.  44.1mm x 22.1mm holes.