inline water proof on-off swich

[billy gibson]

Can anyone point me to a simple inline water proof on-off switch that can handle 20 amps? The switch will be placed in a cable that powers a small electic trolling motor.

 

[BradtheRad]

It won't be easy to insulate all connections after hooking up a waterproof switch.

Perhaps by using a push button switch? Enclose all connected wiring inside a flexible tube? Such as clear vinyl. You will have to install some kind of protective ring around the button, so it would not get pressed by the tubing.

A toggle switch would be convenient, if it is safe to leave the toggle exposed to air. There is very little path for water to penetrate to the inside, so maybe it would survive. You'll enclose all electrical connections in a housing. It might be sufficient if you to seal around wires with silicone, or hot melt glue.

An auto or marine parts store would carry a toggle switch rated for 20 amps.

It is important to prevent wires from bending a lot where they are attached to the terminals. They are prone to break. You may prefer to mount the switch rigidly on the motor or battery.

We once used a rental boat with an electric trolling motor. The switch was on the motor, placed high where it would be away from water. It had an Off position and 2 or 3 positions for speed. Don't know what was inside it.

 

[cjdelphi]

Can anyone point me to a simple inline water proof on-off switch that can handle 20 amps? The switch will be placed in a cable that powers a small electic trolling motor.

with a little tweaking, you could have an aluminum foil touch sensor, place it behind a water proof casing, it should be able to detect your finger even through waterproof plastic, the only 2 wires you'd need to drill for would be the wires to a relay to start the motor...