cord reel motor control?

grantgoold · February 10, 2007, 11:04:08 PM

Folks, I have a cord reel with a 12 volt dc motor. I would like to get a forward and backward and speed switch to control the unit. Anyone have this setup and what are you using? What about a reverse polarity switch, the motor calls for the 50 amp solenoid and breaker inline. Got that now trying to get a switch set up. I know they have them via reel companies but they are mighty proud of them $300.00 plus.

Any thoughts or ideas?

thanks

Grant
Sacramento

niles500 · February 10, 2007, 11:34:05 PM

Grant - don't know if they're 50 amp rated but you can check marine supply houses as they use the same switch for power trim tabs if I'm not mistaken. HTH

Stan · February 11, 2007, 05:54:22 AM

First off, be sure that the motor is reversible. It has to have two insulated lead wires, not one side grounded like a common automotive 12 volt motor.

If you are using the 50 amp solenoid as the power switch, it will have to be followed by a 2 pole, double throw contactor (for reversing the lead wires) capable of carrying 50 amps.

The speed control can be a low resistance rheostat rated at a minimum of 1000 watts (about 12" in diameter) or it can be electronic. Electronic is relatively easy with Mosfets but not cheap.

If you can find something of the shelf it would be the best way to go. The control for the common electric winches would give you the forward-reverse function with a remote hand held control which might eliminate the need for speed control. Check out Harbor Freight (or similar) winches and see if you can get a complete replacement control for one of their big models. A made in China control will likely last you a lifetime.

Nick Badame Refrig/ACC · February 11, 2007, 07:19:57 AM

Hi Grant,

A simple Winch control switch should work just fine for your needs. [rocker in and out switch]

You can find them at harbour fright or Northern or any whinch supply.

Nick-

This control is what I mean

Stan · February 11, 2007, 09:28:23 AM

Just to clarify my previous post. In order to use a winch control, you have to get the pair of solenoid relays that are mounted on the winch. That is why I said "complete winch control". The remote hand control just switches the relay coils.

grantgoold · February 11, 2007, 02:31:27 PM

Stan, thanks for the update. Are you suggesting that I have two relays, one for forward and one for reverse? If so, then can you describe how to connect a three wire winch control unit to the two relays?

Thanks

Grant

Stan · February 11, 2007, 03:35:26 PM

Grant: Every electric vehicle winch I have seen uses one relay for forward and one for reverse. One end of each relay coil is grounded and 12 volts is connected to the common wire going to the hand control. The rocker or toggle switch then send the 12 volts to the required relay. The heavy battery wires are connected directly to the relays.