Curious - Kill Switch?

[IU89]

So, picked up a 1984 Cabriolet and when looking through car found this red device. Wired to, I believe, the battery. I have not attempted to twist or remove to test my theory but wondering if anyone has seen this? Perhaps it’s a stock device on all these 3.2 models. Coming from an SC so new to me. Thanks in advance.

[IU89]

[dg567]

Not factory - just a ground disconnect. Maybe the car has a draw and battery would die after parked for a bit.

[WP0ZZZ]

It's a standard battery disconnect switch like the ones you would find in a race car. You can turn it anti-clockwise and remove the red "key".

[Balisong]

Check that fresh air fan for a fuse. Fire hazard and later on Porsche started fusing them.

[onboost]

Originally Posted by dg567

Not factory - just a ground disconnect. Maybe the car has a draw and battery would die after parked for a bit.

Agree, just an aftermarket disconnect. Given that its a cab, (easier to get into) previous owner, dealer or whomever may have installed as an additional anti-theft deterrent.

I would keep it, handy to shut off power when working on car or storing etc..

Good looking car btw!

[stownsen914]

One tip - don’t shut off the car while running using a simple disconnect like this. Depending on how it’s wired, it may not even stop a running engine. And if it removes the battery from the circuit, the alternator can cause a voltage spike and fry its own diodes.

[IU89]

I greatly appreciate the input.

[Koizumi]

Originally Posted by IU89

I greatly appreciate the input.

I dig the color!