Shifter

Stalk switches for off-road vehicles are specialized switches mounted directly on the steering column. They allow the driver to control essential vehicle functions without taking their hands off the steering wheel. They are used, among others, in ATVs, tractors, dump trucks, loaders, forklifts, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and municipal vehicles.

• Indicators and hazard lights: Signaling turns and warnings
• Lighting control: Low beam, high beam, parking lights, flash-to-pass
• Windshield wipers/washer system: Various speeds including washer function
• Horn: Quick warning and communication
• Direction selector (FNR): Driving direction (Forward–Neutral–Reverse) and often gear selection (1–6 steps)
• Cruise control: In advanced versions for speed regulation

They are specifically designed for harsh operating conditions:

• Made of robust plastic and metal
• Completely dust- and waterproof according to IP67
• Self-cleaning contacts for high reliability
• Suitable for steering columns Ø 38–55 mm
• Operating temperature -40 °C to +85 °C
• Voltage range 1–48 V

• High reliability due to robust design and IP67 protection
• Long service life thanks to self-cleaning contacts
• Flexible designs for customer-specific solutions
• Optional locking function in neutral position
• Usable in extreme temperature and voltage ranges
• Minimal maintenance effort

• Mounted directly on the steering column
• Suitable for Ø 38 mm, 45 mm, and 55 mm
• Can be mounted left or right
• Optional pin for anti-rotation
• Connector options: e.g. DEUTSCH or pigtail cables

Direction selectors (FNR) specifically control driving direction: Forward (F), Neutral (N), and Reverse (R). Advanced models additionally allow the selection of up to 6 driving speeds. They are particularly useful for vehicles with frequent direction changes such as forklifts or loaders.

The selection depends on:

• Type of vehicle and operating conditions
• Required functions (lighting, horn, gears, wipers, etc.)
• Mounting conditions: steering column Ø, left/right
• Protection class (at least IP67)
• Electrical requirements (voltage, current draw)
• Additional options such as locking function or customer-specific adaptations

The switches are largely maintenance-free. Recommended are:

• Regular visual inspection for damage or contamination
• Check electrical function
• Clean contacts if necessary, although the self-cleaning design usually makes this unnecessary

Thanks to robust sealing and construction, the switches achieve a long service life of several years, even in continuous operation.