IPF Backup Light Switch?

[Squelch]

Greetings,

Can anyone tell me if it's possible to remove or unscrew the toggle/tip from the IPF backup switch pictured below?

I'd like to replace the LED in the tip. It looks like it should separate at the part line where the aluminum tip meets the base of the toggle by the pivot point. I can't seem to get it to budge but didn't want to risk breaking it. I don't know if it's possible to purchase a replacement without buying the whole kit.

Thanks for your help!

- D.P.

 

[rickc]

http://www.offroadtuff.com/Toggleswitch.htm

 

[Squelch]

Thanks Rick! I appreciate the link. Good to know a replacement is available if I should break it while trying to change the LED.

- D.P.

 

[ARBTECH]

How old is this switch? If it's less than a couple years we should be able to cover it under warranty. If not, we stock the switches as individual parts. Call and ask for the tech dept.
ARBUSA
888-427-2872

 

[Squelch]

Modified...

Thanks for offering to cover it under warranty. I never expected that. This is a great group!

The switch was purchased in 2004. However, I was asking because I wanted to modify it. Rick's link assured me that if I screwed it up, I could replace it.

On with the mod... I have CDO [OCD in proper order ] which drives my belief that all indicators for lights should be blue. So I wanted to change the green LED.

NOTE: This is not factory approved, you could damage the switch beyond repair. Standard warnings apply!

Necessary parts and tools:
------------------------------
Masking tape
Pliers
X-acto knife, razorblade, etc.
T1 (3 mm) LED in the color of your choice
Cutter (to trim the LED legs)
Soldering iron and solder
Heat shrink

Steps:
-------

1) Wrap the upper portion of the toggle with several layers of masking tape. This will protect the finish. Use a pair of pliers to twist off the upper portion. They're standard right hand threads. Lefty loosy, righty tighty. Be sure to grip the toggle above the part line (shown in previous post).

2) Use an X-acto knife, razorblade, box cutter, etc. to remove the clear plastic heat-shrink and insulator (between the LED anode and cathode).

3) Trim the new LED "legs" to match the old LED. It's helpful to leave the anode (+ side) longer than the cathode (- side).

4) Use a soldering iron to remove the existing (green) LED and install the new (blue) LED. Be sure to pair the anode with the red wire. There's no need to apply a resistor in-line, it's already on the bottom on the switch.

5) Replace the insulator between the LED legs and cover with new heat shrink. The heat shrink and insulator will keep the legs from shorting to each other or the toggle.

6) Screw the toggle back onto the body aligning the LED with the hole in the end.

While I was working on mine, I decided to paint it black to match the rest of the interior.

Happy modding!

- D.P.