12 Volt 3 way switch?

[Skykingrob]

Hi All
I am trying to set up 3, 3 way light circuits in my conversion. One in the living room, one in the bathroom and one in the bedroom. Will these switches work for it? If yes, can you tell me how to wire them up. If not, can you suggest a source for the switches I need that look very similar to those in the listing below.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/RV-on-off-Light-Switch-Motor-Home-Camper-Marine-12-volt-/390072296896?pt=Motors_RV_Trailer_Camper_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5ad21ee5c0

Thanks for your help.

Rob
91 Prevost LeMirage XL
Missouri

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Hi Rob,

Actually no, this switch is 3 positions.

A 3 way set up will only be 2 positions and sending current to the other switch

via a 2nd terminal.

Why don't you just use a 20amp home type 3 way switch? I used them in my coach

for my 12v lights. Simply add up your wattage on your 12v lights on that curcuit and

devide it by 12. This will give you the amp draw.

Good luck
Nick-

[luvrbus]

Why not use the Lutron,Morris or other low voltage switches the rv type switches are kinda junk,I had regular house type rockers on my 12 volt system for lights 3 way but I thought all the switches were 2 way in 15 years they were never a problem just make sure and use the snap type most of those are DC or AC rated but I never could see the difference myself I never knew how he wired the switches all I know was you could control the lights from the bedroom, living area and the entry door

good luck

[Len Silva]

What you are looking for is a SPDT (single pole double throw) switch, configured as ON-ON (vs ON-OFF-ON) which would have a center off position.  Any switch which fits your decor and will handle the load will work.

Switches are rated AC or DC or both.  If you use an AC switch, like a standard household 3 way switch, I would derate it by about 30%.  That is if the switch is rated at 15 amps AC, I would not use it over 10 amps DC.

The sketch is a very basic hook up.  The wires that run between the switches are called "travelers" and it doesn't matter which way they are connected.

[volzalum]

Best source I have found for all sorts of DC switches ...

http://www.otrattw.com/

Not affiliated with them, have just used several of their switches for boat projects.