2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission relay question

[GHerrmann]

I went to the junk yard yesterday looking for a window part for the kids car. Noticed many of the cars still had the relays in them, so I grabbed a few. Now the question, will any 12V relay work as replacements in the CTD as long as the pins match? Or are relays vehicle grabbed?



I want to have a few spares. Going on a 3,600 mile trip over Christmas and I just want to be prepared.

 

[JFaughn]

Relays can be somewhat generic , 12 v & amp rating are a couple of the main differences .
Heres a link that can give some info . Hella Relays

 

[McLaughlin]

John, got it right.

Not 100% sure of my numbers but if I remember correctly most of the auto relays you will find are 30 or 35 amp rating and compared to the 65 or 70 amp relay used for the fuel cut off solenoid in the 2nd Gen Dodges.

Your idea is a good one; but I'd suggest you make sure one is capable of replacing the fuel cutoff relay. Usually you can use a relay with a higher rating to replace one with a lower rating but not a lower one to replace a higher rated one.

 

[Joe G.]

There are some obvious differences. If all the contact blades are the same size it is most likely a 30 amp relay. If two of the blades are big compared to the other two then the relay is most likely 70 amp. If there are four blades it is a single pole single throw relay. If there are five blades is it a single pole double throw relay. A five blade will not fit in a four blade socket. If the pins are round instead of blades then it is not a normal automotive relay.

 

[GHerrmann]

relays

thanks for the info. I have been searching online trying to cross reference them with no luck. They don't have a mfg. name on them, or and specs. as to the amps. Maybe I should just break down and buy a couple of spares.



F. Y. I. the junk yard is a great place to get fuses. !!!!! Free pocket parts.

 

[GHerrmann]

relays

Thanks Joe I have some four and five blade ones. The four blade one have a plastic reference pin on them p/n 5234606 the five blade ones p/n56006707

 

[DieselDoghouse]

As has been said in the world of 12V auto relays there are the large blade relays and now the 'ISO' relays (rectangular) both are used in our trucks. VERY few cars would have a double pole relay, but you may have SPDT or SPST as mentioned. For comparison, go to Mouser Electronics - Electronic Component Distributor and their online electronics catalog will list all these relays.

 

[NoSeeUm]

Usually the relays have a pin out diagram with a crude schematic on them. Match that up and the amp rating.



Jim

 

[JFaughn]

The Hella link above should give most all the info you need , brands make for quality otherwise they are interchangeable .