DeeVeeEight
Fast Pedalphile
How does a linear actuator work? Does it extend when 12v is applied then retract when turned off or does it need another 12v signal to make it retract?
Is that for your headlight doors?
DV8, you list a '79 as your car....so checking for headlights??? I would go with the Chris Mcdonalt 69?MyWay setup.....
www.mcspeed.com something like that....using F body actuators, and his kit to make them work....
http://www.firgelliauto.com/product_info.php?cPath=79&products_id=95
How does a linear actuator work?
I bought the linear actuator for my wiper door from those guys.
The actuator extends or retracts by reversing polarity to the motor (2 wire setup).
There's a limit switch at each end of the travel that cuts out power when you reach the limit. That switch is bypassed by a diode that allows it to be reversed when the switch is open at the limit. So you can apply power to the actuator at all times, the limit switch prevents the motor from running once it's fully opened or closed.
On mine, I used the internal limit to retract the wiper door. I added an external switch and diode to limit the opening of the door. BTW, that same dpdt switch replaces the wiper door switch and turns on the wiper once the door is open fully.
DV8, you list a '79 as your car....so checking for headlights??? I would go with the Chris Mcdonalt 69?MyWay setup.....
www.mcspeed.com something like that....using F body actuators, and his kit to make them work....
http://www.firgelliauto.com/product_info.php?cPath=79&products_id=95
OK - I have the measurements regarding travel of the actuator and even a mechanical concept of how to make it work. What I need help with from you guys is understanding how to make it work electrically without making it over complicated or blowing fuses (or starting fires).
:sos:
Here's the concept.....
The linear actuator - from what I understand, has a common ground and two "12v" leads, each 12v lead controls either the up or down function. I would like to use the existing headlight switch or mount a switch where the vacuum bypass switch is under the column to control the linear actuators. From the description below (Thanks, Garys 68) this circuit performs these functions to a "T".
I bought the linear actuator for my wiper door from those guys.
The actuator extends or retracts by reversing polarity to the motor (2 wire setup).
There's a limit switch at each end of the travel that cuts out power when you reach the limit. That switch is bypassed by a diode that allows it to be reversed when the switch is open at the limit. So you can apply power to the actuator at all times, the limit switch prevents the motor from running once it's fully opened or closed.
On mine, I used the internal limit to retract the wiper door. I added an external switch and diode to limit the opening of the door. BTW, that same dpdt switch replaces the wiper door switch and turns on the wiper once the door is open fully.
Would you be willing to share the schematic for this? It is easier for me to understand if I can see the diagram. Also you stated that your L.A. is a two wire unit? The ones I have seen are 3 or more.
Could this be operated by the existing headlight switch circuit or would a rocker switch be simpler?
Time for me to get schooled by the E.E's in the group....
The 3 wire actuator you describe would be easier to wire. All you'll need is a single spdt relay. Power from the headlight switch would energize the relay to power the up position of the actuator. No power from the headlight switch would power the down position. Still need a scematic?Yes I'll see if I can scan something tomorrow.
BTW, can you provide a link to the actuator you're using?