Forklift Contactor Selection: Coil, Main Contacts and Duty Ratings

Forklift Contactor Selection: Coil, Main Contacts and Duty Ratings

A 24 V coil rating does not describe the load switched by the main contacts. Separate coil voltage, contact arrangement, current duty and terminal layout before comparing a replacement contactor.

contactor selection reference

SW200-series 24 V DC contactor reference. The photograph does not establish Albright manufacture or the full SW200N-2-24 suffix.

Compare the rating condition, not just the amp number

Read these columns with the manufacturer’s application definitions and the actual load cycle. A high intermittent rating cannot be treated as a continuous rating. The SW202 reference also states that its normally closed contacts are not intended to make and break load.

Albright manufacturer reference values. Thermal current is not fault-breaking capacity.
Family Main-contact arrangement Thermal current: interrupted / uninterrupted 30% duty current: interrupted / uninterrupted
Albright SW80 Normally open, single-pole single-throw 100 A / 125 A 185 A / 230 A
Albright SW200 Normally open, single-pole single-throw 250 A / 400 A 455 A / 730 A
Albright SW202 Motor-reversing, single-pole double-throw 250 A / 250 A 455 A / 455 A

What the existing SW200 photograph establishes

The existing product page is titled SW200N-2-24. For an order against that exact code, confirm the full suffix from the old unit or its documentation as well as the 24 V coil. Manufacturer family specifications above must not be transferred to the photographed contactor without an exact product match.

The visible unit label identifies SW200 and 24 V DC; the package reference is 03.50.60.031786481. This photograph does not identify an Albright-manufactured unit or prove the complete SW200N-2-24 suffix. View full photo

Separate the control side from the load side

A practical contactor comparison sheet.
Field Evidence to provide Selection consequence
Coil voltage and duty Coil label, controller output specification The coil must suit its supply and intended energised duty
Main contacts Circuit function and exact contact arrangement Main isolation, pump switching and reversing are different duties
Load voltage and current System voltage, load type and duty information A thermal rating alone does not establish switching or fault-breaking suitability
Suppression and polarity Diode/resistor marking, wiring or ordering code Check polarity and the controller’s coil-output requirements
Auxiliary contacts Side-view photo, contact markings and wiring Feedback contacts must match the vehicle circuit
Physical interface Stud size and spacing, coil terminals, bracket and clearance Similar housings may still have different wiring or mounting requirements

Use the ordering details to resolve a near match

For example, the Albright SW200 reference specifies M10 main studs, 6.3 mm coil terminals and M5 mounting holes or brackets. It also offers different auxiliary-contact and coil-suppression configurations. Those details are useful checks against a candidate, not a specification for every contactor carrying “SW200” on its label.

Send a readable label, a top view of the main studs and a side view of the coil terminals and bracket. If the number is missing, include the truck nameplate and circuit position. Do not choose a replacement solely because its coil voltage and case shape match.

Ask about the part you need

A part number is optional. Start with the information you have.

Technical references

Manufacturer references describe particular products or families. They do not establish Authpart stock or compatibility with your truck.

Scroll to Top

Send a Forklift Parts Request

Send a part number, forklift details, photos, nameplate or parts list. Email is required; all other fields can be completed with the information you have.

Files are used only to identify the requested forklift parts and prepare a response. Accepted: XLS, XLSX, CSV, PDF, JPG, JPEG and PNG. Maximum 5 MB per file and 20 MB per inquiry. Files are kept privately for up to 7 days, then deleted after manual confirmation.