An Automatic Ignition Switch
Page 48
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ACCUMULATORS run down, or coils seriously damaged through forgetfulness on the part of the driver in failing to switch-off the ignition current, are not unheard-of on coil-ignition vehicles. To prevent such an occurrence a suction-operated ignition switch has recently been introduced by the Utex Manufacturing Co., Ltd., 39, Holborn Viaduct, London, E.C.1.
Easy to fit and costing only 5s., the Utex switch consists of a light mouldedcomposition casing, containing a vacuum chamber, having an impregnated-silk diaphragm, the movement of which closes and separates a pair of electric contacts. When in use it is connected up in the suction tube to the windscreen wiper, or simply to the induction 834 pipe in similar manner, and the eontacts are wired in series with the existing ignition switch.
These contacts are contained within the vacuum chamber, where they are protected from dirt, and a permanent leak affords proper ventilation. Inci
dentally, one contact is arranged to roll upon the other, as they separate and come together, so that the point of working contact does not coincide with the point where contact is broken and made.
It is claimed that a depression of 2 ins, of water is enough to close the contacts, and that, in consequence, the engine will not cut out even under conditions of large throttle opening and low r.p.m., and that at 12 ins, of water the air in the chamber is changed every second, which requires that only 500 c.c. pass through per minute.
We are informed by the maker of the device that a number of important operators and at least one prominent commercial-vehicle manufacturer are considering employing the device.