Collection: Automotive Flashers and Solenoids
Automotive flashers are OEM replacements for most applications. Flashers come in either thermal type, or electro-mechanical type. A thermal flasher uses a basic bi-metallic element that heats up and cools down rapidly as the load for the lamps passes through the flasher.
This controls the flash rate, or speed of the flashing circuit. With this type of flasher, the more lamps you have on your circuit, the faster the flash rate will be. Electro-mechanical flashers have a built-in timer circuit and relay, so that no matter how many lamps you have on your circuit, the flasher will operate at the same flash rate. This type of flasher is suitable for maintaining a steady flash rate when towing a trailer,
for example. 2 pin flashers have an 'X' terminal for power input, and an 'L' terminal for the flasher output. 3 pin flashers have an additional terminal labeled 'P' for the pilot light indicator.
High power 12 Volt DC Solenoids are for use in auxiliary starter systems, solar array and battery switching, or other high power 12 volt DC applications. Solenoids simply explained are high current relays or switches.
They come in either continuous operation types or intermittent operation types. Continuous operation solenoids are designed to be activated for extended periods of time, and can usually handle currents up to 85 amps. They are used for main electrical circuit feeds and battery isolation.
Solenoids are available in either a grounded form, where the coil inside the solenoid is grounded through the body of the solenoid, or insulated form, where a separate ground wire is required for the coil. A weather resistant version is also available for use when the solenoid will be used in an exposed environment.
Intermittent operation solenoids are designed to handle extremely high currents of up to 750 amps for short periods of time, and are not designed to be used in an 'always on' type of circuit. Applications for these type of solenoids include starter circuits, high power winches, and hydraulic motors. They are also available with either a grounded body or an insulated body for the coil.
