Hiya I would like to replace the light switch in the utility for an old industrial type Crabtree switch. The current switch has 3 switches to turn on/off the lights in the utility, an outside light and a kitchen light. I have attached a photo of the current wiring of the switch and the (hopefully) replacement switches. The Crabtree on its own is a 2 way not sure if I would need to use this to control the light in the kitchen. If it is possible is it something I could do or would it be best to get a professional?
Using old crabtree switches
- Thread starter RedQueenie
- Start date
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The left hand switch in your photo is a two way switch, there's another switch that also operates that light.
The Crabtree switches do not have a two-way capability.
So not possible, unless you can do away with the two-way function.
EDIT. The middle switch doesnt seem to be two-way. It looks more like a double pole switch of some sort.
The Crabtree switches do not have a two-way capability.
So not possible, unless you can do away with the two-way function.
EDIT. The middle switch doesnt seem to be two-way. It looks more like a double pole switch of some sort.
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Ah OK. you must be really old to know that.....
Converting an 'intermediate' (DPCO)switch to a 2-way (SPDT)?
Thank you for the replies. Does it mean I can replace one of the 3 crabtree with the single shown in the photo with L1,L2 and Com and then wire up the rest as normal?
Sure, if the switch is fit for purpose. Might be worth checking with a multimeter to be sure.
PS
...and ensure that the individual switches are properly earthed.
I got it wrong, didn't see the terminal top left was a dummy.
How would I earth the wires please?
You would need to drill, and tap a hole for a brass screw, in the cast iron of the box - as a minimum. I would also like to see the cover drilled and tapped, to allow for an earth wire, linking that to the earth of the box itself. Both would be best done, on a thicker part of the casting.
As this is a making something work that is 50+ Years old with lethal voltages involved, I would want to see that
A) any earth wire is confirmed to be actually earthed and
B) a continuity test is done between the new earth connection on the box and the metal of each switch
Not that all that much different, to a modern metal faced switch.
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