About that doorway contact light switch . . .

[WaltBennett]

I can understand why they thought it was a good idea to have lights come on when someone opened the door, but having all at once (especially at night!) attracts all sorts of flying things. Has anyone modified this thing so only one light comes on without rewiring everything? It may be easier to rewire the contact switch with a new light (perhaps over the doorway on the inside?). Anyone tried doing something like this?

 

[klickm]

I cut out a small piece of sheetmetal that covers the plunger, attached using the top screw so it can be swiveled if I want to use the feature. O yes, you can't be afraid of the dark and use this mod.
Mike

 

[oldelmer1]

Mine didnt work from the get go, so with help from the MOC, we figured out I had a broken wire on the switch for the kitchen lights.

I bought a single light and installed it above the main switch panel and wired this new light to the door switch. Now only 1 light comes on and I can turn it off since the new light has its own switch on it.

 

[maximo]

My switch went bad, lights will not come on when door is opened. Where do I get a replacement?

Frank

 

[DQDick]

Since we only use those pancake lights in the kitchen when we come in, we just turn one of them off and so only one comes on when we enter. Not sure how that works on the newer rigs, but it works like that on ours.

 

[Ken65]

Hi Frank, Did you pull the switch out to make sure it is the switch? Check it by jumping the two posts. If it is the switch disconnect the wires (remember one is hot with 12 volts so tape it off) then take the switch apart by lifting the three metal tabs on the back and pull apart. It is just two pieces of metal with a spring. Clean all the contact points with fine steel wool. If the spring is good put back together. Bend tabs back and replace. I had to do the same thing with mine. I hope this works for you. If it doesn't work then you should be able to find one at an electrical store. Ken

 

[HOOK-MOC]

A small amount of lube on the tip of the metal switch works wonders. There are individual switches on each light , that is before LEDs, if you want less light.
Recently saw a man struggling with his screen door. Asked him if he had any lube, he said no. Turned to his wife and asked if she had butter, she brought a small amount on a spoon. I touched it with my finger and smeared it on the switch and the door worked perfectly again.
To own a Montana, you must improvise, modify, adapt, overcome. IMHO

 

[Rondo]

You the man Larry! Nothing better that a little butter to keep things loose and slide better!