Battery Switch - Is It Safe To Reposition With Engine Running?

[Dangit]

I think I recall reading somewhere that switching a battery switch, with some switches, with the engine running can fry your alternator. How can I tell if my switch allows me to switch it with the engine running? My switch is round, red and has Off/1/2/All positions marked on it, I don't see any numbers on it, it is a 1999 vintage switch.

Thank you.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Battery Swich - Is It Safe To Reposition With Engine Running?

Re: Battery Swich - Is It Safe To Reposition With Engine Running?

With most switches it is safe to switch between 1, 2, and "all." They are "make before break" type of switches. You simply do not want to turn it to "off."

 

[Dangit]

Re: Battery Swich - Is It Safe To Reposition With Engine Running?

Re: Battery Swich - Is It Safe To Reposition With Engine Running?

With most switches it is safe to switch between 1, 2, and "all." They are "make before break" type of switches. You simply do not want to turn it to "off."

That makes sense to me. If it didn't have a "make before break" design I think there could be sparks/arcing which is not desired in an engine compartment.

Thanks.