Random idea/solution to 97+ 4dr window switch

[Dzimm]

I just had an idea pop into my head this morning. So with the 97+ swap usually you end up with the window controls for a 4dr. Since it's very difficult to locate a 2dr switch bezel, couldn't you use the rear switches for a different purpose? I don't see why not but I couldn't find anything on someone doing this. Has anyone done it? Does anyone see any issues with it? Obviously they are momentary switches and only work when you hold them but they can be useful for something. I was thinking additional reverse lights.

[HOrnbrod]

A power window switch as you say is a momentary contact switch; it toggles a 12V pulse pushing one way and a ground pulse pushing the other. The cleanest way to use this switch to control a device is by using a 12V solid-state automotive latching relay. This latching relay is wired so that the 12V pulse "closes" the latching relay load contacts, energizing the device. The relay will stay latched until you push the window switch the other way, send a ground pulse that causes it to change state and opens the contacts disconnecting the device. It can work for any load device (lights, winch control, etc.) providing the latching relay load contacts are rated high enough to handle the amp load of the device.

 

THIS is an example of an automotive latching relay. Industrial supply houses like McMaster-Carr or Grainger also carry these relays.

[Dzimm]

A power window switch as you say is a momentary contact switch; it toggles a 12V pulse pushing one way and a ground pulse pushing the other. The cleanest way to use this switch to control a device is by using a 12V solid-state automotive latching relay. This latching relay is wired so that the 12V pulse "closes" the latching relay load contacts, energizing the device. The relay will stay latched until you push the window switch the other way, send a ground pulse that causes it to change state and opens the contacts disconnecting the device. It can work for any load device (lights, winch control, etc.) providing the latching relay load contacts are rated high enough to handle the amp load of the device.

 

THIS is an example of an automotive latching relay. Industrial supply houses like McMaster-Carr or Grainger also carry these relays.

 

Ah yes I wouldn't of thought to use a latching relay. I was thinking more along the lines of splicing into the wires and running them elsewhere. Idk what exactly I would use it for. I won't have a winch on this truck, the only lights I really see it useful for is auxiliary reverse lights. Or maybe a security switch (must be holding it to start the truck). Any other ideas for uses?

[mikekaz1]

security switch would be neat.

 

 

you could set up a power window regulator for the rear slider. and use the window switch for it.

 

 

or power sunroof mod

[yellaheep]

Beat me to it. I was thinking ignition security switch as well.

 

The other switch could be to operate a lock pin for the fuel door....One way to lock, the other way to unlock.

[Dzimm]

you could set up a power window regulator for the rear slider. and use the window switch for it.

This would be difficult to do and still make it look clean. Plus my rear slider is very difficult to open so idk how it would work.

 

or power sunroof mod

That would be very cool. I don't have a sunroof but if I did I would definitely look into it.

[Dzimm]

Beat me to it. I was thinking ignition security switch as well.

 

The other switch could be to operate a lock pin for the fuel door....One way to lock, the other way to unlock.

I like the fuel tank lock idea. I don't think I will go that far with it though. I'm going to get a locking cap instead.

 

Edit: Thought about this more and I think it would be easier to use an electromagnet that's too strong to open when it's locked.

[shelbyluvv]

The only problem I saw with it was hitting the wrong switch by mistake. Imagine driving down the road and you mistakenly hit your kill switch trying to put down your window. While in theory it is an excellent idea, in service it could be a mistake. I would use them for any function that you could see. Nothing like reverse lights, kill switch, fog lights...

[Dzimm]

 

The only problem I saw with it was hitting the wrong switch by mistake. Imagine driving down the road and you mistakenly hit your kill switch trying to put down your window. While in theory it is an excellent idea, in service it could be a mistake. I would use them for any function that you could see. Nothing like reverse lights, kill switch, fog lights..[/quoted]

 

It won't be a traditional kill switch but more an interuption between the starter. You hold the switch to start the truck then after that it doesn't matter if you hit it since it just interrupts the starter wire. I wouldn't use it for fogs because I'm installing a factory fog light. I do see the concern with the Reverse lights but I'm a tall guy and the chances of accidentally hitting it are slim to none. It's super uncomfortable to rest my arm lower than the window sill so I think I would be okay.

 

Any other ideas?