The solenoid on the starter performs exactly that function plus engaging the
starter gear.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
John Rodgers
Sent: Sunday, December 12, 2010 12:30 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Ignition Switch, Battery and Starter Protection

  The discussion on mega-fues brought this to mine, and I felt it
appropriate to have a different heading.

I haven't really explored the circuitry so simply don't know much about it
and am wondering.

Small airplanes - and prol'ly large ones - are wired so that operation of
the ignition switch  actuates a relay installed between the the battery and
the starter. Turn the ignition switch to the start position, the relay
closes, connecting the starter and the battery. As soon as the engine
starts, the switch is released, the relay opens, and the battery is
disconnected from the starter.

I take it there is no such circuit in the Vanagon but something different.
Such heavy relays are always located by the battery box to relieve the need
for heavy wire strung over long distances. Would there be any advantage to
have this aircraft type arrangement in the Vanagons?

John

--
John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com