Inertia Fuel Shutoff Switch: Description and Operation

Typical Inertia Fuel Shut-Off Switch:

Description

The inertia fuel shutoff switch:
- is used in conjunction with an electric fuel pump.
- shuts off the fuel pump in the event of a collision.
- consists of a steel ball held in place by a magnet.

Operation

When a sharp impact occurs:
- the ball breaks loose from the magnet, rolls up a ramp and strikes a target plate which opens the electrical contacts of the inertia fuel shutoff switch and shuts off the fuel pump.
- Once the inertia fuel shutoff switch is open, the inertia fuel shutoff switch must be manually reset before restarting the vehicle.

If a collision occurs:
- the electrical contacts in the inertia fuel shutoff switch open.
- the fuel pump automatically shuts off, even if the engine does not stop running.
- the engine will stop a few seconds after the fuel pump stops.
- it is impossible to restart engine until the inertia fuel shutoff switch, located on the LH side lower back panel in the luggage compartment, is manually reset.

NOTE: In the reset position, the button can be pressed an additional 1.59 mm (0.0625 inch) against a spring. This is a normal condition.

WARNING: Do not reset the inertia fuel shutoff switch until the complete fuel system has been inspected for leaks or damage to vehicle or personal injury may occur.