Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin Review

First Impressions of Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin

The Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin might not be the sexiest piece of gear in my arsenal, but trust me, when your RV slideout decides to stage a revolt in the middle of nowhere, this little switch becomes your best friend. Manufactured by Diamond Group, this 5-pin switch boasts a high output of 40 Amps. It promises to be the reliable solution for controlling slideouts, power jacks, and other DC motors in RVs and beyond.

My RV’s slideout motor started acting flaky, intermittently refusing to retract, a problem that always seemed to occur just as a storm was rolling in. Finding a robust and dependable replacement switch became a priority. After some research, I chose the Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch because of its reputation for handling higher amperage loads compared to some of the cheaper alternatives that tend to burn out quickly.

The switch arrived in a simple, no-frills package, reflecting its utilitarian nature. Picking it up, it felt solid enough; the plastic housing didn’t feel cheap or flimsy, and the switch action had a positive, definite click. It seemed noticeably more substantial than the original switch that came with my RV, which gave me some immediate confidence.

Compared to a generic, unmarked switch I considered from a local auto parts store, and a similar-looking Camco switch online, the Valterra stood out due to the clear specifications and the Diamond Group name – a brand I’ve come to trust for RV components. The price point, at $35.39, seemed fair for the peace of mind knowing I was installing a quality part. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic; this switch looked the part of a dependable replacement.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin to the Test

First Use Experience

The first test came during a weekend camping trip to the Ocala National Forest in Florida. I installed the Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin directly replacing the old switch controlling the RV’s main slideout. Wiring it up was straightforward, the clearly marked terminals and standard 5-pin DPDT configuration made it easy to match the existing wiring harness.

During the trip, Florida’s infamous humidity decided to make an appearance, followed by a brief but intense thunderstorm. The switch performed flawlessly each time I extended and retracted the slideout, operating smoothly and consistently even with wet hands and damp conditions. I was happy to see the motor working without any of the previous hesitation or stuttering.

There was no noticeable “break-in” period or any quirks that needed getting used to. The switch felt like a direct improvement from the start. I was impressed by the positive tactile feedback, ensuring clear engagement and preventing accidental activation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a cross-country trip with numerous slideout deployments and retractions, the Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear or degradation, no sticking, no looseness, and no intermittent failures. It is still as smooth and confident in its operation as the day I installed it.

The switch’s plastic housing has held up well to constant use and exposure to sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it needs to stay functional and prevent grime buildup. So far, it outperforms the original equipment switch by a significant margin, and I’m confident in its long-term reliability.

My previous experiences with cheaper switches usually involved premature failure due to arcing, contact corrosion, or physical breakage of the switch mechanism. The Valterra seems to be built with higher quality components and better attention to detail, offering a significantly longer service life than what I’ve seen before.

Breaking Down the Features of Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin

Specifications

• The Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin is a double-pole, double-throw (DPDT) switch designed for high-current applications. Its High output (40 Amp) rating ensures it can handle the demands of RV slideouts and other power-hungry DC motors.
• The switch’s dimensions are 1.63″ x 0.82″, with a required cutout of 1.50″ x 0.70″. These compact dimensions allow for easy integration into existing control panels or custom installations.
• It utilizes a standard 5-pin configuration, making wiring straightforward for those familiar with DC electrical circuits. The Diamond Group part number is 1715B.

These specifications are critical because they dictate the switch’s suitability for specific applications. The amperage rating ensures the switch can handle the motor’s load without overheating or failing, while the dimensions determine whether it can physically fit into the intended mounting location. The DPDT configuration allows for reversing the polarity of the motor, enabling both extension and retraction of the slideout.

Performance & Functionality

The Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin excels at its primary job of reliably controlling DC motors. The switch action is smooth and precise, providing positive tactile feedback that minimizes the risk of accidental activation or incomplete engagement.

Its strength lies in its robust construction and high-current handling capability, offering a consistent and dependable performance. One potential area for improvement would be adding some form of weather sealing to further protect the contacts from moisture and corrosion in harsh environments. It certainly exceeds expectations in terms of reliability compared to the original, low-quality switch it replaced.

Design & Ergonomics

The switch’s design is straightforward and functional. The plastic housing feels durable, and the square shape allows for easy mounting and integration into standard control panels.

The tactile feedback of the switch mechanism is excellent, and there’s a distinct “click” when the switch is engaged, providing confidence that the circuit is properly connected. There’s no learning curve; it’s a simple on-off-on switch with a familiar feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin is built to last. The switch’s robust construction and high-quality materials should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dust or grime. The switch’s straightforward design should allow for relatively easy replacement of the switch mechanism or contacts if needed, further extending its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin doesn’t come with any specific accessories. There aren’t any customization options in terms of the switch itself.

It is compatible with any standard DC electrical system that requires a DPDT switch capable of handling up to 40 Amps. Users can choose to replace the plastic housing with a metal one for added protection or aesthetic appeal, but it’s not necessary for the switch to function properly.

Pros and Cons of Valterra In-Line Terminal Switch Dpdt – Square 5-Pin