In search of a switch

[screamer63_1979]

I need a switch i can bolt to the thorttle linkage of a quadrjet that is normally closed but will open when the throttle closes (to idle) - (break a circuit at idle, complete the circuit when off idle)

reason is i have a 7000R4 OD trans with a locking torque converter and no computer to lock it up. they sell kits for this (from $70 to $125) but I can achieve the same results IF i can find a way to break an electrical circuit when 'coasting'.

I can lock it up when in 4th easily enough, but need to break the circuit at idle (coasting) to unlock the converter - so i need a switch - any ideas?

Some of the 'kits' come with a vacuum switch to do this, and that might work just as well, but i figure such a switch would be harder to find. (normally closed, open circuit at high vacuum...possibly adjustable?)

[Firechicken]

Well, one thing you could do (and this by no means makes it right or best) is use a roller switch and a cam plate. Here's a pic of a roller switch and a link to a place where you can order it.

http://www.radioshack.com/product.as...5Fid=275%2D017

With this set up, you would need to fabricate a cam plate or something similar so that when the switch gets to the point that you want it to open, the roller would drop down off the raised cam and open.

I'm sure there are probably better options, but if nothing else, this one would work.

Good luck,
Firechicken

[Firechicken]

One other thing I thought of, is that you could modify an old rotory style brake light switch as well. You would have to fabricate a bracket for the switch to attach to; but, you would have to do that with my previous suggestion as well. Going this route though, you wouldn't have to fabricate a cam plate as well.

Anyway, lotso luck,
Firechicken

[screamer63_1979]

microswitches drive me nuts...i may have something somewhere. i can't seem to find my own ass with both hands lately.
Anyone seen my 1/2" ratchet? it's broke, set it someplace to remind me to take it to Sears...and well, i can find sears but not the ratchet!

I have an old brake switch (plunger style) that maybe i will use with the brake pedal...

?Wanna try some logic here and see what i am not seeing?

I can get teh converter to lock in 4th, and when always in 4th. when locked it is like a manual trans - solid.

So, you be cruising along and punch it, things d/s to 3rd, it unlocks.

so, you slow down for a stop sign, it d/s and unlocks.

the 'kits' you can buy have a brake switch that unlocks it when you hit the brakes..logical, just a safety device maybe?

some kits have a vac switch...perhaps to unlock at cruise OR when going up a hill for more torque multiplication?

We all have daily drivers (almost all, not streets) with lockup converters - when does your's unlock but stay in OD?