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Push Button Toilet Switch for Headhunter
I remember reading a post from Joel, who installed an automotive type push button momentary switch to replace the Headhunter switch and the timer.
Does anyone know which switch, or maybe a part number of the switch used? And how was it mounted, or does it fit the existing hole? Does the old pushbutton switch just pry out, or is there something inside holding it in place?
Also, does the switch connect to just the two wires on the other side of the timer, which leads to the flush valve?
Has anyone else tried this?
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15 Replies
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Boy, that’s a lot of questions! Unfortunately, it’s been so long since I did the mod that I can only remember in generalities. I might be able to go to the coach today and pull out my ‘toilet’ file which may have particulars.
As I recall, I pulled out the old switch after determining that all I would need for the toilet to function would be a simple 2-wire switch—push to connect the 2 termials together. Then I measured the hole and took the old switch to an auto parts store where I found a nice looking chrome/brass switch assembly that would fit the hole. The switch was, I believe, a starter switch for an old Ford or something. It is spring loaded, when you push and hold it the terminals are connected and the toilet flushes continuously; when you let go, the switch pops out and the toilet stops. I like it, especially when dry camping, because you can have a long flush only when necessary and a short flush if desired.
I’d have to check my file or see a Headhunter wiring diagram to go further. Let me know.
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Thanks for the reply Joel, So basically, the two wires where the timer plugs into the wiring going to the flush valve, just attach those to the new switch.
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If I remember right the orignal switch is actually a timer and switch combined. If you change out the original for a momentary contact switch as Joel describes your finger becomes the timer. The longer you press it, the longer the flush. We are not talking a minute but only the difference between a slight touch and a longer touch, maybe a second or two or three.
All it does is operate a solenoid in the flush valve that upsets a diaphragm to release the water flow. Release the switch and the solenoid releases pressure against the diaphragm and the flush cycle begins to end. It will not stop instantly when you take your finger off the switch.
We’ve reverted to simplicity in our coach. We just touch the two wires together for a second or two.
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Jon wrote: “We’ve reverted to simplicity in our coach. We just touch the two wires together for a second or two.”
Really? No switch just two bare wires? Do you get a spark? What about a methane gas explosion?
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Touching the two wires together sounds good to me Jon! LOL
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Just kidding. At least the toilet isn’t controlled by the Crestron……….yet.
I never gave any thought to an explosion proof switch, but now that you mention it maybe we all should. JDUB especially should be concerned.
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Touching those two wires together, or rather separating them while touching both of them will give one a first-hand demonstration of why they put diodes across coils, unless it already has a diode. Probably shouldn’t try that if one has a pacemaker, lol. I made a coil on a sewing thread spool when I was a kid and used it to move a nail; I had to do some learning to find why I got shocked with only a 1-1/2 volt flashlight cell.
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While investigating the push button switch tonight and timer, I noticed the real reason why one of my toilets flushes weak, and sometimes not at all. Take a look at the crimped 1″ water line below! Now, I have to figure out how to get my hands in there to fix it.
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The timer is separate from the button, I had to replace both on my Liberty.
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Jerry: Is it easy to get to one end? Undo it, cut a little off and reattach. I think its kinked because the hose is too long.
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Dick, here is another angle, I may have to try a 90 degree fitting where the crimp is, that PVC braided hose is tough to push on barbed fittings, especially with a little age on it, may try a little heat.
Don’t know why it post twice, and the pictures are always turned. Posted from iphone 6
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I’ll flip it for you Jerry, which way does it go? 90 left, 90 right, 180, etc.
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Jerry: Heat will be your friend. Some of the hoses we use on the race I heat in a pan of boiling water before I push the hose on the barbed fitting. Test a small piece first to ensure it won’t come apart in boiling water.
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Good Idea Dick.
Tom, turn 90 to the left. The black big hose should be on the bottom of picture. And, I posted 2 different pictures, don’t know where the other one went.
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Opps, might have lost one of your pictures Jerry when I flipped them. If you have another send it to me and I’ll attach it to wherever you need it.
Sorry…
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