What Switch Do I Need?

Figure there has to be some electrical types here. I want to replace this switch, goes to a restored/restomodded tube type stereo amplifier - Dynaco 70. Looks like 6 amps @ 125 VAC.

Just need "ON" and "OFF", not a complicated guy.

When I went poking around the intertubes I get "ON" & "ON" switches, and "ON/OFF/ON" switches. I didn't see any "OFF/OFF" switches, but knowing my fat thumbs I'll somehow order one by mistake.

The panel opening is 1/4" hole. What switch do I want to order? Please use small words that are easy to understand. Single throw, double pole? Thanks!

 

Can't tell from the photo.
Is this a rotary switch or a toggle switch?
Is there any I'd info on the silver plates on the side of the switch?

 

Yeah, just a simple "Up" for "On" and "down" for "Off". Like a cl***ic light switch I guess.

 

Here's a couple:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Gardner-Bender-20-Amp-Single-Pole-Toggle-Switch-1-Pack-GSW-121/100117400

https://www.amazon.com/Gardner-Bend...hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584207589983452&psc=1

These may not fit 1/4" hole. Need to look for miniature.

Are these styles close enough?
Where are you located?

 

This is a smaller unit, may fit 1/4" hole


https://www.amazon.com/Miniature-To...be7eb432363&pd_rd_wg=8J2rg&pd_rd_i=B07PFZDKNG

 

Thanks for your help

 

Let us know if the switch install gets your unit back in service.

 

On/off switches are the most common out there.

For this, I would go to an electrical jobber shop. They have many different switches that big box stores don't. This way you can match up the amps/panel hole size, etc.

 

Without being a smart****, can i suggest you tin those wires before you solder to the new switch, those joints look dry to me. And don't have the wire sticking out of the lugs.
Plenty of youtube videos on soldering electronics.

 

You noticed that too. Yeah the soldering looks like an afterthought, don't it?

 

A simple On/Off toggle switch is called Single Pole, Single Throw. You'll see switches in electrical catalogs labelled SPST. This is what you want.

 

OK, I've had two of them delivered today in my mailbox for $5.95, can't argue with that. They look identical. So I got that going for me, which is nice.

One question though, does it matter which way it is connected with only the two wires? I think "No" though I'm no spark chaser.

Even I can't screw up the function of the switch, I know it will work, BUT, is there some kind of safety or ground issue here, excessive hum or something, if it is hooked up "wrong"? If there's a 50/50 chance of connecting it wrong, I'm pretty sure I'll find it.

The unit has been updated to include a polarised plug.

 

Can wire either way. A switch is just a break in a wire.
When you mount the switch in the panel, position it so up is ON.

 

And as always don’t forget: mouser.com

 

Can Mouser send even a single switch for six bucks though? They are a great company, most mail order wants a minimum order.

 

@Truck64 , is your equipment now repaired?

 

Can't see any reason why it wouldn't be? I haven't actually tried it just yet, need to get everything hooked up. One, it weighs almost 30 pounds. Unlike transistor gear these need to have speakers hooked up when turned on. It also doubles as a space heater. Sort of dragging my feet or taking my time getting it ready to sell.

I'm afraid I'll want to keep it. It is a very excellent design overall.

Tested the power supply capacitors and they are all excellent.

 

Shouldn't matter which way you wire it, but a better solder job would be nice.

Careful how long you leave the solder iron on the switch when you're soldering it. The heat can start to melt the plastic on those little switches if ya get carried away.