Inertia Fuel Shutoff Switch: Description and Operation

Typical Inertia Fuel Shut-Off Switch:

PURPOSE
The inertia fuel shutoff switch is used to shut off the electric fuel pump in the event of a collision.

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 open, it must be manually reset before restarting the vehicle.

CONSTRUCTION
It consists of a steel ball held in place by a magnet.