Where can I find a 4 pole toggle switch for my drill?

I have an old Makita hammer drill that the forward reverse switch stopped working. I tried RadioShack but all the toggle switches are either 2, 3 or six pole. I have 4 wires. It needs to fit inside the handle which will make it hard to purchase on line..Thanks

Makita supports their old stuff really well, have you tried using the model number and searching online?

ShawnG said:

Makita supports their old stuff really well, have you tried using the model number and searching online?

Yes, but $36 plus shipping for a toggle switch

In reply to rustybugkiller :

But you can actually buy it.

What's a new Makita hammer drill worth?

In reply to rustybugkiller :

You've probably tried but can the switch be cleaned/fixed?

Stampie said:

You've probably tried but can the switch be cleaned/fixed?

Exactly. A lot of switches can be disassembled, with a little persuasion, and the contacts cleaned up with some emery paper. 

If replacement really is required, are there any markings on the switch that can help identify a new one? It's likely to be fairly configuration rather than a proprietary Makita design.

rustybugkiller said:

I have an old Makita hammer drill that the forward reverse switch stopped working. I tried RadioShack but all the toggle switches are either 2, 3 or six pole. I have 4 wires. It needs to fit inside the handle which will make it hard to purchase on line..Thanks

I agree repairing/replacing/whatever with an OEM switch is the best option, but...

Get a "6 terminal" switch (which is presumably a DPDT = double pole, double throw) and "X" jumper across the outputs.  The original switch does the same thing internally.

Search for something like "how to wire a dpdt switch to reverse a motor" or "motor reversing switch"

In reply to Stampie :

Multiple cleanings didn't work. 

Oapfu said:

rustybugkiller said:

I have an old Makita hammer drill that the forward reverse switch stopped working. I tried RadioShack but all the toggle switches are either 2, 3 or six pole. I have 4 wires. It needs to fit inside the handle which will make it hard to purchase on line..Thanks

I agree repairing/replacing/whatever with an OEM switch is the best option, but...

Get a "6 terminal" switch (which is presumably a DPDT = double pole, double throw) and "X" jumper across the outputs.  The original switch does the same thing internally.

Search for something like "how to wire a dpdt switch to reverse a motor" or "motor reversing switch"

I found a reverse polarity switch on Amazon with dimensions that are close. I need to check fit in the drill but this is another option since Radio shack has 6 pole switches I can put my hands on to check sizing. Thanks!

The most surprising thing I've seen today is that you have an open radio shack near you. 

A DPDT reversing switch is for DC applications.

Your original switch will swap between two sets of windings in the field winding to handle reversing. It -may- be wired similar to that but it may not.  

If you're using a non-OEM switch, get your meter out and figure out which wires go to which sets of windings and wire the switch accordingly.

Usually there's a part number on the original switch. Maybe google that and see if something cheaper is available from Mr. Bezos

rustybugkiller said:

ShawnG said:

Makita supports their old stuff really well, have you tried using the model number and searching online?

Yes, but $36 plus shipping for a toggle switch

 

Also consider the time invested rigging a switch to work versus a switch that actually fits.  Just a thought.