Bill wrote in message
...
Why is this stuff a secret???

Where can I find data sheets or specifications for automotive parts such
as
relays and switches? (Amperage ratings of contacts, pin and internal
component diagrams, duty rating of relays - continuous duty, etc.)

All the usual things provided by everybody else in the electrical world!

But this information is not anywhere on the internet and the only thing on
the product packaging is a part number! No ratings are on the devices
either! Just a part number...

Or is there an automotive parts manufacturer who provides this basic
information on their web site?

Example of a relay data sheet from the non-automotive world...
http://www.magnecraft.com/library/section8/105A_49.pdf




Putting my conspiracy hat on.
In Europe , defense /medical /aero-space manufacturers , have a derogation
allowing the continued use of leaded solder/components, but AFAIK not
automotive industry.
They all know that to allow lead-free with heat and vibration of a car then
they will hardly get out of the factory before solder joints start to fail -
so they keep quiet about continuing to use leaded "tinning" of components
and leaded solder?


--
Diverse Devices, Southampton, England
electronic hints and repair briefs , schematics/manuals list on
http://home.graffiti.net/diverse:graffiti.net/