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Posted by David Sherman [72.47.9.228] on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 20:11:05 :
In Reply to: waterproof switch for (PW) trailer posted by Doc Dave [69.19.14.27] on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 18:24:39 :
There are many options. I always use sealed mil-spec switches scrounged out of old military electronics. They're toggle switches with either a silicone rubber boot around the handle or a flexible seal just inside the switch, and sealer where the cover crimps on and terminals go through. They're available retail but they're around $40. I would check first marine supply stores, since there's probably one near you, and then industrial supply catalogs for "washdown" switches.
In general, your best bet for totally waterproof sealing is a rotary or lever type switch, because they can seal that with an o-ring around the shaft. Toggle switches have more movement and require some sort of rubber that can bend. Pushbutton switches are problematic because they rely on an internal spring to push the button back out and it might not be strong enough to overcome dirt and corrosion. Plus, the sliding seal is harder to seal than a rotary seal.
I don't mean to make it sound complicated. This problem has been solved long ago by lots of people, but you'll find the solution in your industrial and marine suppliers or military surplus, not in the local hardware or auto parts store.
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