Help with Illuminated Rocker Switch

[lorne]

I have a problem with the simplest thing — and it is driving me bonkers:

CONTEXT: I decided to replace the switch in the step transformer that I boxed and wired a few years ago. I replaced the rocker switch (off/on) with an illuminated one.

The NEW switch has an illuminated rocker. Rated 125 VAC, 8 Amps. This is a Japanese switch, and so it is intended to work on our 100 VAC mains. It has three blades — 1, 2, 3. I've wired 1 on the wire to the fuse. 2 is wired on the other side of the switch. 3 goes to ground (transformer frame and chassis). But, NO LIGHT on power up. The switch itself tests fine. And I jumpered another illuminated switch into the circuit and still no light.

Please help save my brain from frying!

 

[bricktop]

Usually those types of switches have connections for:
1) input hot
2) output switched hot
3) neutral

when the switch is on, the 'output switched hot' applies AC to the indicator as well, and the neutral is needed as the return path for the bulb. If there is no return path for #3, then the light doesn't work, but the switch still does. Your bulb may not be turning on because the tx frame isn't part of the circuit, ground or otherwise. Try connecting the tab you have on the frame to the wall neutral instead.

and as always, be careful! good luck

 

[lorne]

Thanks for the caution BTW. (I'm hands off when I'm testing and using a remote switch.)

OK. This unit's #3 blade is a folded metal affair and has a small hole that good for 20-22 AGW. #1 and #2 are more robust and the hole is a squarish and will receive 18 gauge. So, I have concluded that #3 has to be controlling the light/diode.

So what you say makes complete sense, because — DUH — if my ground was part of the circuit, I'd have winding shorted to my chassis.

Thanks a lot. I'll try running three over to neutral.

 

[lorne]

AHHH — BINGO! Thanks again bricktop. I got one thing working today anyway.

 

[bricktop]

Glad you got it working:thmbsp: