Difference Between 3 Terminal and 4 Terminal Solenoid
Question:
Working on aux charge solenoids on our camper. I find there are 2 types of solenoids, the 3 terminal and the 4 terminal type. I believer the 2 large terminals on both carry current from the charging location to additional batteries. If using the 3 terminal, the body of the solenoid is the ground with the small terminal wired to a power source to complete the circuit. With the solenoid with the 2 small terminals, one side is required to be the ground while the other is the power closing the circuit. Thanks for the help.
asked by: D G
Expert Reply:
You are correct. With a 3 terminal solenoid like the # PK5231201, the mounting hardware will serve as the ground connection. A 4 terminal solenoid like the # PK5232401 will require a dedicated ground wire from that additional terminal for this function.
When choosing between the two, I do recommend going with a 3 terminal like # PK5231201, as it simply eliminates the need for a separate ground wire, which will in turn require you to drill another hole into the trailer's frame.
Products Referenced in This Question
Starter Solenoid - SPST - 24 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Insulated
- Accessories and Parts
- Battery Boxes
- Switches and Solenoids
- 100 Amp
- Pollak
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Starter Solenoid - SPST - 12 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Grounded
- Accessories and Parts
- Battery Boxes
- Switches and Solenoids
- 100 Amp
- Pollak
more information >
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