Use antenna switch for rear window?

[txcrawl]

I've relocated my rear window switch in my 88 Runner to the dash above the radio where the antenna switch is. I have replaced my power antenna with a rubber one so I haven't had the antenna switch even connected and that got me to wondering.. If it sends the antenna up and down, couldn't it do the same for the rear window? Could the antenna switch be used in place of the rear window switch by jumping wires? Each switch has 5 wires.

 

[flyinhawaiian01]

Theoretically, yes, but you'll have to check on how the wiring is done for the switch. They should both be "momentary dpdt, center off" switches, but you also need to check the current each switch is capable of.

An antenna will draw only an amp or two, while that rear window will pull probably 8-10 amps, depending on how hard that window goes up!

Now, if you don't mind playing with a couple of relays, then this would be a non-issue, but I think it would just be easier and cheaper to go with another momentary dpdt switch, rather than dealing with a ton of extra wiring.

Check the online toyota junk yards, that would be a super-cheap switch to ship, and I can't imagine it would be that expensive for a used one! Maybe 15 or 20 bucks shipped?

 

[fourwd1]

The rear window motor is controlled by relays, which are controlled by the switch, so current capacity of the switch is not an issue.

 

[cdd408]

yes it can

 

[flyinhawaiian01]

The rear window motor is controlled by relays, which are controlled by the switch, so current capacity of the switch is not an issue.

Ahh, then no problem with wiring the antenna switch up then!

Learn somethin' new every day!!!

 

[Red Tintop]

That is the switch I used when I moved mine to the area above the radio. Works great.

 

[txcrawl]

some wonderful information there, thanks for all the input everyone! i have a test light and very little knowledge of electronics but i can learn. i have been staring at diagrams for the past few days and reading all i can in forums and even played with the test light on both switches yesterday. i've installed radios and dealt with harnesses and diagrams with my 3 wheelers but that's the most i've gotten into this kind of stuff.

 

[RAD4Runner]

...you'll have to check on how the wiring is done for the switch. They should both be "momentary dpdt, center off" switches...

Antenna switch is a little odd. Could get complicated for O.P.

The rear window motor is controlled by relays, which are controlled by the switch, so current capacity of the switch is not an issue.

Agree.

O.P.
I've used the antenna switch. I think its wiring is odd
In order to use the antenna switch for the door, you need to find the "center" terminal.

Make sure it is a momentary switch. When released nothing should be connected to the center.
When pushed one way, only one pin should be connected to center. This could be your UP position.
When pushed the other way, only one OTHER pin should be connected to center. This could be your Down position.

If too complicated, just find up/down switch from same gen from junkyard- but the you still have check like above to make sure it is functional.

OR just get EXACTLY this from auto parts store:
momentary, center-off, single-pole, double-throw.
Wire it like you see on schematic.