Catalina 34

General Activities => Main Message Board => Topic started by: Ross Fisher on December 14, 2018, 04:48:42 PM

Title: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: Ross Fisher on December 14, 2018, 04:48:42 PM
Can anyone help me out with a Kubota part Number ( or other equivalent part No.) for the double prong oil pressure switch that is used on the M35B engine?  The Universal/Westerbeke part number is 37323. Sourcing the Westerbeke part is very expensive from Australia, as it involves high shipping costs (on top of the inflated Westerbeke prices). Kubota parts are a much-preferred local alternative. Many thanks for your help.
Ross
Title: Re: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: KWKloeber on December 14, 2018, 05:13:21 PM
There is no Kb switch. That type switch isn't used on the Kb tractor and other engines.

I have tried for 5 years without luck to source a substitute. The problem is that places like Autozone carry two prong switches, but their specifications are hard to determine. The supplier (Wells) typically doesn't list the specs of OEM switches. For instance, a Chevy part number xyz might work, but I can't get the specs.

I've looked at dozens of Wells switches but when I called Wells about a specific one the techies said they had no way of confirming any characteristic that wasn't already listed in their catalog. 

If you can find one the specs are:

1/8" NPT thread
Normally open circuit
Closes about 5 psi.

It's a 2-terminal because it doesn't close a circuit to engine ground. The circuit powers the fuel pump and is completely isolated.

I have been long interested in figuring out a way to easily switch the wiring to eliminate the fuel pump shutoff and revert to the "old type" switch (that is normally closed  and opens about 5 psi.)

-ken
Title: Re: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: KWKloeber on December 14, 2018, 06:22:50 PM
I did a little more lookin' for yah.....

You could try this one, it's the only one I found that's close.

A wells PS114, same as Duralast PS114

PS114 1/8-27 NPTF Dryseal Normally Open- Closes 2-8 PSI

The Wells website catalog is currently down, but here's what it looks like:
https://www.autozone.com/internal-engine/oil-pressure-switch/duralast-oil-pressure-switch/123513_30261_8537#
Title: Re: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: Ross Fisher on December 14, 2018, 06:32:54 PM
Many thanks for your research and advice, Ken. I'll certainly follow this up.
Ross
Title: Re: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: Ross Fisher on January 15, 2019, 11:09:58 PM
A belated thanks, Ken. After a little further research, I discovered that Westerbeke has an agent in Australia. Pricey, but not prohibitive! Job done!!
Title: Re: Oil pressure switch for Universal M35B
Post by: KWKloeber on January 15, 2019, 11:21:51 PM
Thanks Ross

Glad that it worked out, but darnit I was hoping a guinea pig would find out if those aftermarket switches will work!  :D :shock:

-k