If you have to leave your car, boat, camper, tractor unattended, or just want a deterrent for thieves, know that an emergency battery switch is very useful.
Furthermore, disconnecting the battery when you leave the vehicle stationary for a long time prevents it from discharging. When the time comes to leave, simply activate the switch so that it reconnects the battery and you are ready to go. It is also useful for discouraging thefts; in fact the disconnected battery is another obstacle that the thief must overcome before taking the road… with your car!
Steps
Step 1. Installing an emergency switch is relatively simple, however you must follow the precautions listed below
If you are worried about working with electricity or are not sure how to continue, contact a professional. He will be happy to help you and will also show you how.
Step 2. A switch of this type installs on or near the battery and its primary function is to prevent the battery from discharging during long periods of inactivity
A welded switch provides power to the alarm system, on-board computer, central locking and radio, but the engine does not start; any attempt to turn on the machine will blow the fuse and shut off all electrical connections.
Step 3. Buy a new switch
The simplest model is a master switch. Make sure it can support your vehicle's battery charge, it's very important! A used, damaged or badly calibrated switch could cause major problems in the electrical system and even a fire.
Step 4. Disconnect the negative terminal (usually black and stamped with a “-” sign)
If you do this first, you protect yourself from a possible short circuit or shock, both of which are not pleasant for you or your car!
Step 5. Disconnect the positive terminal from the battery (it is usually red with a “+” sign)
Step 6. Carefully remove the negative clamp and set it aside in case you want to remove the switch later on
Step 7. Clean the terminals and check the fluid levels inside the battery
Step 8. Connect the switch to the negative terminal of the battery and tighten it securely
Step 9. Reconnect the positive lead to the corresponding terminal and tighten the bolt tightly
Step 10. Follow the instructions that are included in the switch package and connect the negative cable, always fixing it securely
Step 11. Make sure the switch is off
Give it a try by trying to start the car.
Step 12. If everything works as it should, turn off the car and flip the switch
Make sure that all electrical devices receive power.
Step 13. Now don't try to start the car, otherwise you will blow the fuse
Advice
- When you disconnect the battery on vehicles with digital electronic devices, know that the memory of the clock, on-board computer and radio will be erased. The way the car starts could also be affected. If in doubt, consult an auto electrician or dealership.
- You can buy external chargers to be connected to the cigarette lighter at a reasonable price to maintain power to the on-board computer so that the security codes and memory are not erased. Alternatively, you can use a clamp to keep the battery connected while you work; a small one should be enough to keep the on-board computer stand-by, plus it will act as a fuse if something goes wrong.
- Buy a new switch that is rated to support your battery charge. Is very important! Fitting a worn, already used or wrong switch could cause major damage to the electrical system and even a fire.
- Some mechanical and electrical knowledge is required. Contact your auto electrician if you have any doubts.
Warnings
- Be wary of any new installation that requires cable assembly. Any inaccurate connection can cause a short circuit. As a precaution it is always best to install a fuse.
- If you have to leave your car stationary for most of the winter and you live in a very cold region, it is best to remove the battery and store it in a warmer place. A charged lead-acid battery will not freeze. However, if it is discharged (and unfortunately it discharges slowly if not used) it will freeze and be completely ruined.
- In addition, if the battery fails to start the car during the very cold months, its removal and storage in a warm place could regenerate it to the point of being able to start the engine. The heat takes time to take effect and the battery will still need to be replaced (unless you move south or wait for spring), however it is a remedy that can get you out of trouble if you have a little patience.
- This technique also works for frozen carburetors (if you still have a carbureted car) but should not be used by fearful people. The best solution (and prevention) is to put antifreeze in the fuel system and not allow sediments to form in the tank.
