wiring cord pull switch

[BillMc]

My old cord pull switch (for a light) has broken. The new one has a different set of terminals: the previous switch had two cables entering, each with live, neutral and earth, and 5 terminals: 2 live, 2 neutral and 1 earth. The new one has only 4 terminals: L1 L2 COM L and earth. I don't want to fuse the system, so which wire goes where in the new switch?

BM

 

[wingcoax]

As is asked so often on this forum, Piccies please. A photo tells a thousand words.

 

[flameport]

You have purchased the wrong type of switch.
You need a double pole switch.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Not necessarily - if it is only for a light.

Bill - is it only for a light?

And do you have a multimeter?

 

[BillMc]

Thanks for the swift responses. Yes, it is simply a light switch (and not even in a bathroom). I hope the pictures are visible -- the upper terminals on the old switch are labelled 'LOAD' and the lower terminals are labelled 'FEED'.

BM

 

[BillMc]

Sorry, as a newcomer I'm afraid I can't seem to work out how to include pictures. I've asked for help, and will post them as soon as I get the info.

BM

 

[Steve]

ceiling wires

• BillMc
• 10 Jun 2009
• 1

old switch.

• BillMc
• 10 Jun 2009
• 1

upper terminals read 'load, lower terminals read feed

You have what looks like VIR wiring (the black stuff), it needs inspecting and will probably need replacing.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Yes, it is simply a light switch

In that case you can use the switch you've bought, as lights don't need double-pole switching.

But unless you have a multimeter you won't be able to confirm that red is actually the live conductor - it should be and almost certainly is, but it's not something you can just hope you're getting right.

And as Steve says, some of your existing wiring might be very dodgy.

 

[ColJack]

more interesting is the signs that the screws were not making contact with the wires, rather just holding them against the back of the terminal hole.. ( screw marks are on the insulation on both red wires. )

 

[BillMc]

Thanks to everyone for helpful comments: used multimeter, changed switch for double pole anyway, light works.

BM

 

[Steve]

did you get your wiring checked out?

 

[BillMc]

Will do as soon as I can get an electrician -- not easy here at the end of the world