Are the ordinary automotive relays able to operate at low voltage? That
is what is required to make this relay operate more reliably than the
old solenoid. 

Also you have to be concerned about exposure to the environment. The
headlamp relays I am familiar with would not last long on the bottom
side of the vehicle.

Thanks for the feedback - Noel

-----Original Message-----
From: David Brodbeck [mailto:gull@gull.us] 
Sent: Thursday, May 01, 2003 9:46 AM
To: Noel Cookson
Cc: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Start-Solenoid-fix

On Thu, 1 May 2003, Noel Cookson wrote:

> This kit calls for using a "generic Ford truck solenoid".  The
solenoid
> is placed ahead of the starter solenoid and is presumably able to
> operate in low voltage conditions.

Don't use a Ford solenoid.  (Really this is a contactor, not a
solenoid.)
They draw almost as much current as the starter solenoid, and they're
unreliable to boot.  I had one refuse to engage in a Crown Victoria, and
one stick in the *on* position in a Ford Aerostar.  (This will really
get
your attention.)

I would use an ordinary automotive relay, the same sort that people are
using to rewire their headlights.  You don't need a big contactor like
the
Fords use because you're not carrying the starter current, just the
current to the solenoid.

David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si