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MG MGA - Flash-to-Pass Switch Installation

I ordered and finally received my Flash-to-Pass (FTP) switch from Holden (Holden part no. 020.145) as seen on Barneys site (http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/accessories/at113.htm). Last night, I installed it. There were no instructions with the switch so I was not sure what the three terminals on the back of the switch do. They are marked 1, 2 and 3. I used my multi-meter to determine continuity. The switch handle rests in one position. In the resting position, there is continuity between terminals 2 and 3. When I move the toggle to the other position, the continuity changes so that it is between terminals 1 and 2. You have to hold it in that position to maintain continuity between 1 and 2. If you let go, it springs back to its resting position and the continuity changes back to being between 2 and 3. Terminal 3 is not needed to achieve the FTP function.

I had already installed the Moss headlight relay kit. With two relays in the headlight relay kit installed to carry the load for headlights (one for high beam and one for low beam), the original dipper switch is simply triggering the two relays. The Flash-To-Pass switch is used to trigger the high beam relay whether the headlights are on or not (but it will not flash if the high beams are already on). All I needed to do was run a fused power wire (I used an in-line fuse) to either terminal 1 or 2 on the FTP switch and run another wire from the other terminal (1 or 2) to the blue/white (high beam) wires on the dipper switch. No ground is needed for the FTP switch since the high beam relay is already grounded. This setup retains the function of the foot-operated dipper switch.

I made a bracket for the FTP switch and attached it to the left dash brace since I'm not sure I want to drill a hole in my dash. I may change my mind later and install it on the dash but for now, I have a FTP switch that was pretty easy to install. Many thanks to Barney for answering my questions throughout this process.

NOTE This installation method will only work if you have a headlight relay kit installed.

Jim



JL Cheatham

It should still work without relays.
Dave O'Neill 2

According to Barney Gaylord's website, you need a relay unless I'm not understanding him correctly. http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/accessories/at113a.htm

Jim
JL Cheatham

This thread was discussed on 10/08/2017

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