Rocker Switch Wiring Diagrams
To support our customers, we’ve compiled a comprehensive resource featuring rocker switch wiring diagrams, explanations, and step-by-step how-to videos for some of the most popular Carling rocker switches we offer.
For additional switch-specific details, including wiring instructions and specifications, visit the product pages for each part. Explore the diagrams below to ensure proper installation and functionality of your rocker switch.
1. V1D1-B60B – SPST, ON-OFF, 1 Dep Lamp – Top
Buy This Switch: V1D1-B60B ON-OFF Rocker Switch.
Arguably the most popular rocker switch, the V1D1-B60B is a SPST ON-OFF rocker switch designed for 12V 20A applications. It features the “V1D1” marking along with the Carling Technologies branding for authenticity.
This Carling rocker switch includes a single incandescent lamp at the top, which automatically illuminates when the switch is ON. It has three prongs (terminals) on the back, ensuring a simple and reliable connection.
For those needing a four-prong version with two lights, we also offer the V1D1-G66B, listed below. Additionally, this switch can replace a V1DA rocker switch, which has plastic barriers between the terminals.
Like all of our Carling Contura V-Series Rocker Switches, this model is IP68-rated, making it dustproof and waterproof. For proper installation, refer to the rocker switch wiring diagram provided.
See our V1D1 wiring overview video here:
This switch body can be paired with many of our printed marine labeled snap in rocker switch covers for a complete, labeled switch combo unit.
Please also see our: Etched Marine labeled backlit rocket switches. Or read more about how backlit switches work.
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2. V1D1-G_ _B – SPST, ON-OFF – (1) Top Independent, (1) Bottom Dependent
This section applies to all our SPST independent lamp ON-OFF switches, which we carry in various lamp and LED colors.
These switch bodies include (and cab be purchased as links below):
V1D1-GCCB – Red LED Rocker Switch
V1D1-GXXB – Blue LED Rocker Switch
We use this V1D1 rocker switch body for all our SPST ON-OFF laser-etched backlit rocker switches. Unlike the V1D1-B60B, which has three prongs, this version features four prongs, including an additional terminal at position 8, which controls the independent top light.
This rocker switch body is designed to be paired with an etched or printed snap-in rocker switch cover to create a complete switch unit. All rocker switch actuators sold on our site are fully compatible with this model.
Like all of our Carling Contura V-Series Rocker Switches, this switch is IP68-rated, making it dustproof and waterproof. For detailed installation instructions, refer to the rocker switch wiring diagram provided.
3. VJD1-D66B, ON-OFF-ON, DPDT Rocker Switch w/ 2 DEP Lamps
Buy VJD1 Switch Body only here
Buy: Nav/Anc Rocker Switch here
The DPDT illuminated rocker switch features two dependent lamps, one at the top and one at the bottom. The rocker switch wiring diagram to the right clearly illustrates how the contacts and lamps are wired internally for proper functionality.
The VJD1 rocker switch has seven terminals on the back for secure connections. If you’re replacing an existing rocker switch, check the switch housing—if it’s stamped with “VJD1,” this model is a direct replacement. It is also compatible with V6D1, VJDA, and V6DA models.
This illuminated rocker switch lights the bottom lamp when switched down and the upper lamp when switched up for easy visibility.
3b. How to Wire as a Nav/Anc Switch:
For marine applications an extremely common use for this VJD1 switch is as a Navigation and Anchor light switch.
We’ve created a short video explaining how to do this:
Design cool fully custom rocker switch covers for RVs, Jeeps, Aviation, ATV’s, etc here.
4. VJD2-U_ _B – DPDT, ON-OFF-ON with 2 ind lamps
This wiring diagram applies to several switches with the only difference being the color of the lights. The blanks: “_” shown can be a “6” for white, “C” for red, or “X” for blue.
Buy variations of this switches here:
VJD2-U66B – White Lamps
VJD2-UCCB – Red LEDs
VJD2-UXXB – Blue LEDs
As our only 10-terminal rocker switch, this marine-grade DPDT rocker switch is an ON-OFF-ON switch, where both the up and down positions are ON, and the center position is OFF. It features two independent lights—one at the top and one at the bottom—which are triggered by an external source, such as another switch.
The VJD2 rocker switch has 10 terminals on the back and is a variation of our VJD1 ON-OFF-ON rocker switch body. It is most commonly used when controlling two loads separately, without activating the backlights in a bank of backlit rocker switches.
Refer to the rocker switch wiring diagram to see how the 10 terminals (spade connectors) function:
- Four terminals control the independent rocker switch lights
- Six terminals handle electromechanical switching
- Two isolated negative inputs (T9 and T7) for each LED or lamp
This rocker switch body is designed to be paired with a rocker switch actuator, and all actuators sold on our site are fully compatible. However, for independent lighting functionality, we recommend using an etched switch cover specifically designed for this model.
Commonly used as a Navigation/Anchor light switch for boats, this Carling Contura V-Series Rocker Switch is IP68-rated, ensuring it is dustproof and waterproof. For detailed installation guidance, refer to the rocker switch wiring diagram provided.
5. VLD1-A_0B – DPDT, (ON)-OFF-(ON), 1 Independent Lamp
This wiring diagram applies to several switch body variations that apply to lighting color only, otherwise the switches are the same.
View/buy variations of the switch here:
VLD1-A60B – White Incandescent Lamps
VLD1-AC0B – Red LEDs
VLD1-AX0B – Blue LEDs
This is a Double Pole Double Throw DPDT, momentary illuminated momentary rocker switch It has one ind lamp at the top. The wiring diagram to the right will show how to wire and power this 12V 20AMP (ON)-OFF-(ON) 3 way Carling Contura rocker switch.
When wiring this switch you can choose if you’d like to illuminate it because of the independent lamp attached to terminals 8 and 7. Or these terminals can be ignored for non-backlit switch banks.
This rocker switch is often used to reverse polarity on an electric motor. If you’re replacing an existing rocker switch, it will probably have a “VLD1” stamped on the side, although it will also replace a V8D1, VLDA, and V8DA (among others).
This is a black rocker switch body only and is meant to be paired an etched or printed snap in rocker switch cover for a complete switch unit.
Like all of our rocker switches this is a genuine Carling Contura V Series Rocker Switch and It is IP68 sealed dustproof and waterproof.
6. VMDJ-G66B – DPDT, (ON)-ON-OFF, 1 Independent, 1 Dependent Lamp
The VMDJ DPDT momentary rocker switch is a versatile 12V 20AMP (ON)-ON-OFF Carling Contura rocker switch. The rocker switch wiring diagram below provides a clear guide on how to wire and power this unique 3-way switch.
This rocker switch is ideal for an engine OFF/RUN/START setup. It features:
- OFF (bottom position)
- ON (center position) – stays on
- Momentary (ON) (top position) – active only while pressed
Commonly used in windshield wiper/washer systems, this switch includes a brass jumper on terminals 2 and 5, as shown in the diagram.
For a step-by-step rocker switch wiring diagram, download the free PDF guide below.