Can I use a mini toggle switch?

So I've been wanting to add some heated grips to my '79 KZ750. The grips came with a giant toggle switch. I'm thinking about using a mini instead as it might be easier to find space for something smaller.

The local electronics shack has a SPDT mini center off toggle that looks like it would do the job.

The big switch that came with the grips says it's rated for 15A @ 12VDC or 10A @ 24VDC. And the mini says 10A @ 125VAC or 6A @ 250VAC. I don't know how to compare those specs.

Will this mini switch do the job or am I gonna melt it?

The small switch has a lower current rating. Might not handle the heater.

Also the switches available from most electronc stores are not moisture resistant. Read this:
www.gadgetjq.com/accessory_switches.htm

Topper wrote: So I've been wanting to add some heated grips to my '79 KZ750. The grips came with a giant toggle switch. I'm thinking about using a mini instead as it might be easier to find space for something smaller.

The local electronics shack has a SPDT mini center off toggle that looks like it would do the job.

The big switch that came with the grips says it's rated for 15A @ 12VDC or 10A @ 24VDC. And the mini says 10A @ 125VAC or 6A @ 250VAC. I don't know how to compare those specs.

Will this mini switch do the job or am I gonna melt it?

not sure what brand you have but if i read this correctly the switch will be fine

A pair of Hot Grips® heated grips will use between 2.5 and 3 amps (at 12.0 volts). Another way to state that same specification is that our heated grips will use between 30 and 36 watts per pair (at 12.0 volts).

in general terms 115V ac switch will compare in a 14vDC swtich in amperage load ie: 125VAC 10amp would equal 14VDC 10 AMP

UL listing is the reason why they are rated in AC vs DC
I took dc fundamentals in electronics but didn't retain much found that info on the net

yes u can got some on my other bike, cool housing as well
www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/2009/04/19/mini-switch-for-1-handlebar/

ramtough_63 wrote: not sure what brand you have but if i read this correctly the switch will be fine

A pair of Hot Grips® heated grips will use between 2.5 and 3 amps (at 12.0 volts).

These are a lot like the Hot Grips warmers and they pull about 3 amps as well.

jonnybravo wrote: yes u can got some on my other bike, cool housing as well
www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/2009/04/19/mini-switch-for-1-handlebar/

I've seen a few of those on ebay. They'd solve the problem of where to mount the switch as well. If they make one with a three-way center off switch it might be the ticket. Or can you mount your own switch in there?

yes u can, i got mine from a different company but its the same deal I put in my own switches,,, I'll try to look it up and let u know

here's another company, i actually found these guys after i had already ordered mine, they have a better selection
www.posh-factory.com/product.htm

the company that made mine is closed but not to worry the above link is the same product,
AND
I found this thread on another site, should give u all the info u need
www.chopcult.com/forum/showthread.php?s=...45887b00277b5&t=1392