Modding 3PDT to a nonlatching momentary switch?

[maximee]

Hi...

I need a nonlatching 3PDT...I have the normal blue one.

Is it possible to disassemble the switch and take some parts out of it or grind it down or whatever to make it a nonlatching momentary?

[R.G.]

Anything is possible given enough effort, skill, time and money.

I would bet that this is going to be really difficult to do, though. The insides of those switches use carefully shaped rockers and springs to get it to settle in alternate positions. Opening and reshaping is likely to require watchmaker's skills to do well and get a reliable switch.

I personally would use a momentary single pole switch driving a 3P relay, much quicker, easier and more reliable. But then I'm not too good with my hands.

[Travis]

You would actually need to fabricate a part to make this work.  The rocker is longer and shaped differently  (more material)  in momentary switches.  The rocker itself forms a spring that prevents the switch from latching at the far end of its throw.

It's much easier to go the other way; momentary to latching.  Even then, the design of most switches (blue 3pdt's included) isn't reassembly friendly.  

I would go with the relay.  It's probably the easiest way to get what you want.  You might even get lucky and learn something.

However, if you absolutely MUST have the momentary 3pdt, I would avoid fabrication.  You should be able to find suitable momentary rockers in other switches.