Slave solenoid

[FreeBeeTony]

I am rewiring my boat. Engine (mercruiser 165hp IL6) is out and being rebuilt. I am considering using a high current relay instead of a slave solenoid for the starter. I was told the starter solenoid draws about 15 amps. The relay I am planning on using is rated at 30 amps. Does 15 amps sound right for the starter solenoid?

 

[petryshyn]

Re: Slave solenoid

The starter solenoid is an "inductive load" which means it'll take an awfully good relay to power it. I'd stick with a slave solenoid, as it isn't as prone to be damaged by the voltage spike when disengaging......

 

[ebbtide176]

Re: Slave solenoid

do you really need to put the relay that far from the starter? i was just curious, since i don't understand why changing the starter components & primary 'circuit'... i guess you work for an automotive sound shop to even think of doing this... otherwise, why not just continue with a slave solenoid? (i might be missing the point also)<br /><br />**note**<br />if you ever get a reply from schem- you can depend on it

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: Slave solenoid

I do not work for a automotive sound shop but do work for an electronics manufacturer. I just thought that this relay would be easiier to install, seems more state of the art.

 

[petryshyn]

Re: Slave solenoid

Though the slave solenoid isn't "state of the art", its effective contact opening is much higher than typical relays....(over .5") The contacts are good for several hundred amps. Thats whats needed for inductive loads....

 

[akriverrat]

Re: Slave solenoid

kodiak marine factory installs cube relay as you seem to describe. 12 years and no failures. yet. knock wood.

 

[Patrick123]

Re: Slave solenoid

Painless Wiring (www.painlesswiring.com) makes a "relay kit" to run a GM starter solinoid ("Hot Shot" #30202) and it uses a standard bosch-style 30A relay, so your idea may work. Go to painlesswiring.com click on "relay kits" to the left to see a picture of it. I'm no expert though so I can't tell you weather it is a good idea or not.