Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

[LEAKITIKI]

Im wondering if there is a simple way to modify the wiring of my blower switch to the ignition. I would like to have the starter inoperable if the blower is not running. I think if I replaced the rocker switch with one that had an additonal normally open set of contacts that would work. Im wondering if there is a way to do it without replacing the existing rocker switch?

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

The current draw thru a blower is pretty minimal compared to a starter. If you were to use a blower motor switch the complete the circuit to the starter switch, I would think either you would get a drag so slow that you think your battery is dead or you would burn up the blower motor/switch.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

you would need a dual pole switch for the blower..... Personally tho I wouldn't..... if the engine stalls on you at a bad time it adds a complication and could slow your reaction time...

you could just add a sign next to the key that instructs to operate the blow if there isn't one already

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

I bought a fume detector with auto blower..... it turns the blower on any time there are fumes in the bilge and sounds an alarm if the level is high enough.... I still run the blower manually BUT I would have to for get AND the detector would have to fail at the same time for anything to happen

 

[LEAKITIKI]

Re: Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

Single pole dual throw switch. The problem we have is Not turning on the blower at times. In therory if the motor stalled the blower would still be running and you could start the engine again right away.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Ignition switch/blower motor interlock

Add a 12 volt relay with the relay coil energized by the blower switch. The relay contacts would have the wire that is normally on the "S" terminal of the ignition switch connected to one contact and the other contact goes back to the "S" terminal. If the blower switch is on, the relay is energized and the contacts closed which also allows the starter to engage. A 12 volt relay has very low current draw so there is no issue with it on all the time. You could even add an idiot light to the helm to indicate when the relay was active. Or if you choose a relay with another set of contacts have the idiot light come on when the ignition key is on but the blower is not switched on. Lots of possibilities. But keep in mind you are adding lots of points of failure. You see me mentioning that alot, but more points of failure is not a good thing. Train yourself to switch that blower on -- it's like using a seat belt. Get used to it and it becomes automatic.