Ignition switches are essential components of any vehicle. They are responsible for controlling the power supply to the engine and various other electrical systems in the vehicle. The ignition switch connects to the battery, starter motor, and other electrical devices to start the engine and keep it running. In this article, we will discuss the 5 prong ignition switch wiring diagram and how to wire it correctly.
What is a 5 Prong Ignition Switch?
A 5 prong ignition switch is a type of switch that has five terminals for connecting wires. These switches are commonly used in automobiles, boats, and other vehicles that have a starter motor. The five terminals are labeled as follows:
| Terminal Number | Terminal Label |
|---|---|
| 1 | Battery |
| 2 | Accessory |
| 3 | Start |
| 4 | Ignition |
| 5 | Ground |
The battery terminal is connected to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s battery. The accessory terminal is connected to the accessory circuit in the vehicle, which can include the radio, lights, and other electrical components. The start terminal is connected to the starter motor, which cranks the engine. The ignition terminal is connected to the ignition circuit, which provides power to the spark plugs and other ignition components. The ground terminal is connected to the vehicle’s chassis, which provides a return path for the electrical current.
Wiring Diagram for a 5 Prong Ignition Switch
The wiring diagram for a 5 prong ignition switch is relatively simple. The following diagram shows the basic layout:
As you can see, the five terminals are labeled as B, ACC, ST, IGN, and GND. The wires from the vehicle’s battery, accessory circuit, starter motor, ignition circuit, and ground are connected to these terminals, respectively. The wiring diagram may vary slightly depending on the type of vehicle and ignition system.
How to Wire a 5 Prong Ignition Switch
Wiring a 5 prong ignition switch is easy if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before you begin wiring the ignition switch, disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery to prevent any accidental electrical shocks or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.
Step 2: Connect the Battery Wire
Connect the wire from the vehicle’s positive battery terminal to the B terminal of the ignition switch using a ring terminal and a bolt. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
Step 3: Connect the Accessory Wire
Connect the wire from the accessory circuit to the ACC terminal of the ignition switch using a ring terminal and a bolt. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
Step 4: Connect the Start Wire
Connect the wire from the starter motor to the ST terminal of the ignition switch using a ring terminal and a bolt. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
Step 5: Connect the Ignition Wire
Connect the wire from the ignition circuit to the IGN terminal of the ignition switch using a ring terminal and a bolt. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
Step 6: Connect the Ground Wire
Connect the wire from the vehicle’s chassis to the GND terminal of the ignition switch using a ring terminal and a bolt. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the function of the ignition switch?
The ignition switch is responsible for controlling the power supply to the engine and various other electrical systems in the vehicle. It connects to the battery, starter motor, and other electrical devices to start the engine and keep it running.
What are the terminals on a 5 prong ignition switch?
A 5 prong ignition switch has five terminals that are labeled as B, ACC, ST, IGN, and GND. The battery terminal is connected to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s battery. The accessory terminal is connected to the accessory circuit in the vehicle. The start terminal is connected to the starter motor. The ignition terminal is connected to the ignition circuit. The ground terminal is connected to the vehicle’s chassis.
How do you wire a 5 prong ignition switch?
To wire a 5 prong ignition switch, follow these steps: disconnect the battery, connect the battery wire to the B terminal, connect the accessory wire to the ACC terminal, connect the start wire to the ST terminal, connect the ignition wire to the IGN terminal, and connect the ground wire to the GND terminal.
What is the difference between a 5 prong and a 4 prong ignition switch?
A 5 prong ignition switch has five terminals, while a 4 prong ignition switch has four terminals. The additional terminal on a 5 prong switch is usually the accessory terminal, which allows for more electrical devices to be connected to the switch. The basic wiring principles are the same for both switches.
Can a faulty ignition switch cause engine problems?
Yes, a faulty ignition switch can cause issues with the engine and other electrical systems in the vehicle. Common problems include difficulty starting the engine, stalling while driving, and failure of electrical components such as the radio and lights.
Conclusion
Wiring a 5 prong ignition switch is easy if you follow the correct steps and use the right tools. It is essential to ensure that all connections are tight and secure to prevent any electrical issues or damage to the vehicle. The wiring diagram and instructions provided in this article should be helpful for anyone who needs to wire a 5 prong ignition switch.
