| ctfordguy | -- 03-08-2011 @ 10:59 AM |
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Hi, I posted this query on FordBarn also so you may not be reading doubles. Some time back there was an article, I think in the Early Bird magazine, on how to protect your T-Bird from fire. They put a 30 amp Circuit Breaker between the Solenoid and a wire that is the Source for ALL electrical power except for the Battery cables. Is there a logical spot for such a Safety device on a 1936 Ford? I am putting a Master Shut-off Switch between the Negative Battery cable and the floor Button Switch. Thanks for any ideas. Bruce Vinokurs@aol.com
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| supereal | -- 03-08-2011 @ 11:40 AM |
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The only protection that should be inserted between the system and the battery is a "fusible link" that is a special piece of wire designed to open under very heavy current, such as a dead short. Fuses or breakers shouldn't be used, particularly low rated ones such as 30 amps, for that purpose. If they open while the vehicle is running, damage to the charging system is likely. The best safety switch is the kind that mounts on a battery pole, and operates with a knob. It isolates the entire system while the vehicle is idle.
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| ctfordguy | -- 03-08-2011 @ 11:59 AM |
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Hi, Appreciate the reply. I am using an Optima 6 volt battery under the floor and am working on a way to lower the battery. I'm afraid that a post type switch would only make things worse. It also is very hard to get at in an emergency. I plan to put a Master Disconnect inside thengine compartment near the steerinf column on the Negative side between the battery and floor starter button. Should this be on the positive/Ground side instead? Bruce
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| TomO | -- 03-09-2011 @ 7:44 AM |
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The advantage of disconnecting the grounded side is that there is less chance of a spark and any spark can cause a non-sealed battery to explode. You should connect the disconnect switch as close to the battery as possible to prevent unwanted circuits before the switch. Tom
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| supereal | -- 03-09-2011 @ 8:46 AM |
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I've seen cutoff switches mounted under the seat, through the floorboards. You can install the switch on either side of the battery, as once the circuit is open, there can't be any arcing, anyway. We usually put it on the "hot" side, as the knob type switch is usually made for that battery post. The important consideration is being able to get at it easily if trouble crops up. Optima batteries do produce fumes when being charged, but lots less than the common lead-acid type. They can be mounted in any position without fear of spillage.
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| johnpoly | -- 03-16-2011 @ 8:47 AM |
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I have installed a battery switch under the front seat on my '36. It is the type with a lever to switch on and off. The cables are under the floorboards. A small hole in the floorboard is all that is needed to install the switch. The only parts of the switch extending above the floorboard is the switch shaft and lever.
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