Plastic MDS With Removable Key 55-003

OVERVIEW

When it comes to protecting your air-cooled investment, a reliable battery disconnect is not just an upgrade; it is an absolute necessity. Whether you are building a dedicated drag Bug, a weekend sand rail, or keeping a classic Type 1 Beetle in the garage, electrical safety should be your top priority. The Quickcar Racing Products Plastic MDS provides a robust solution to prevent catastrophic electrical fires and unwanted battery drain during long periods of storage. Old VW wiring harnesses are notorious for brittle insulation and unexpected shorts; having a master disconnect allows you to kill the power instantly in an emergency or simply walk away from your vehicle knowing that no parasitic draw will leave you stranded with a dead battery the next time you turn the key.

The QRP55-003 is engineered for the enthusiast who demands performance and reliability without the unnecessary weight of heavy metal-housed switches. Its high-impact plastic casing makes it the lightest master disconnect in the Quickcar lineup, making it a favorite for weight-conscious racers and off-roaders alike. Despite its lightweight design, this switch is a powerhouse, capable of handling 350 continual amps at 12V, which is more than enough for most air-cooled Volkswagen applications including those running high-torque starters and high-output alternators. The inclusion of a removable red key adds a layer of security, acting as a highly effective theft deterrent when the vehicle is left unattended. It is designed to work seamlessly with 3/8-inch ring terminals, ensuring a solid, low-resistance connection for your primary battery cables.

FITMENT

This Quickcar Master Disconnect Switch is a universal component that is highly recommended for the following Volkswagen and off-road applications:

• VW Beetle (Type 1): All years 1946-1979 (Standard and Super Beetle).
• VW Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950-1979 (Split Window and Bay Window models).
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1955-1974.
• VW Type 3: 1961-1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback).
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All custom chassis, Manx clones, and tube-frame rails.
• Baja Bugs: Custom off-road builds requiring emergency shut-off capabilities.
• Racing Applications: Suitable for drag racing, autocross, and off-road racing series requiring a master kill switch.

SPECS

The Quickcar 55-003 is built to exacting standards to ensure it performs under the harshest racing conditions. Below are the technical specifications:

• Part Number: 55-003 (QRP55-003).
• Amperage Rating: 350 Amps Continual at 12 Volts.
• Housing Material: High-Impact, Lightweight Reinforced Plastic.
• Actuator Type: Removable Red Safety Key.
• Terminal Size: Dual 3/8-Inch Studs for Ring Terminals.
• Voltage Compatibility: Designed for 12V DC systems.
• Weight: 0.35 lbs (Ultra-lightweight design).
• Mounting: Panel mount design for clean installation through dash or firewall.
• Safety Standards: Meets requirements for most major racing sanctioning bodies.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Circuit Placement for Total Isolation

When installing the Quickcar MDS in your Beetle or Bus, it is often debated whether to place it on the positive or negative battery cable. For most racing applications and safety requirements, the switch is placed on the positive side to completely