Wiring a 2 way 12 volt switch

Irie308

Well-Known Member
May 28, 2013
2,577
CT
Boat Info
2004 420 DB, GHS Hydraulic Lift
Garmin 8600/Garmin 1222 plus
AB Mares 10 VSX with 30 hp Tohatsu
Engines
Cummins 450C 8.3 L Turbocharged
So i added a spreader light just above my stern light and i want to wire it up so that i can control it from the bridge and from the switch panel when you enter the salon. I get how to wire it from the helm but i'm trying to understand how it should be wired from the salon. I'm using a Carling switch from the helm (V1D1) and a Vimar on/off switch from the salon (16005). Searched and search but just can't seem to find any good info online so that i can wire the second switch. I'm currently mocking this up at home on the bench. Any input is greatly appreciated.
 
So you want to be able to turn a single light on from two different switches? Wire both switches in parallel, to the light.
Yes, would like to control from both locations. Its that simple really?
 
Yes, would like to control from both locations. Its that simple really?

Switched 12V from both switches to the positive side of the spreader and negative from the spreader to the boats ground. If you are worried about 12V back flow you could install diodes but if that is all that is on the circuit past the switches you should be fine. It's the same concept as wiring a bilge pump with a manual and float switch.

-Kevin
 
When wiring the switches in parallel, the problem is if one switch has the light on, the other won't be able to turn it off.

If you have SPDT switches, you could wire it up like a 3-way switch.
 
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When wiring the switches in parallel, the problem is if one switch has the light on, the other won't be able to turn it off.
I understand what you are saying. In the simple form, he would have to turn the light ON/OFF from the same switch. not like a kitchen light that has a switch at each entry where you can turn it on from one switch and off from the other.

He might be able to configure it like this using a pair of DPDT switches, but would have to do some sketching out. But, I think the switch illumination would not work right though. Again, not sure without digging deeper.
 
Here ya go....
 

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(2) SPDT switches would work.

EDIT: Or, just look at Jim's post... he has a picture :)
 
Oh... Irie... as you're looking around for SPDT switches, these are often labelled as "on-on" switches.
 
... or just add a 12V smart switch a say "Alexa, turn on my aft spreader" ;)

-Kevin
 
Thanks all!
 
... or just add a 12V smart switch a say "Alexa, turn on my aft spreader" ;)
-Kevin
Would be nice

It must be just my dirty mind, but does anyone else see anything funny with automating an "aft spreader"? I am not sure I want my aft spread, personally -- not that there is anything wrong with that....
 
... or just add a 12V smart switch a say "Alexa, turn on my aft spreader" ;)
-Kevin


It must be just my dirty mind, but does anyone else see anything funny with automating an "aft spreader"? I am not sure I want my aft spread, personally -- not that there is anything wrong with that....
Haha...it must be winter!
 
Use momentary switches with a latching relay. This is how SR does their lighting. With this you need no wiring to go from switch to switch; only one conductor to the relay from each switch. The other side of the switch is grounded. Any switch momentarily connects to ground and the relay turns the lighting on; Any switch momentarily to ground and the lighting turns off. It's very simple.
Here is the latching relay (In-Power VCM-01) I used to replace the ones in my boat:
https://www.delcity.net/store/InPower-Solid-State-Relays/p_920528.h_920530
 

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