Carling V-Series switches are described by a full 14 unit part number, which get’s quite confusing. Luckily, most vendors can get the switch you need with only the first 4 digits (including us!).
1st digit – V-series always starts with a “V”
2nd digit – The function type, describes if you want an ON-OFF, (ON)-OFF, ON-OFF-ON, etc. The “(ON)” with parentheses around it is a pretty standard way to describe a momentary function (like a horn).
3rd digit – The switch rating… typically for marine use is a “D” for 20A, 12Vdc. Note, the actual switch mechanism can typically be used at higher voltages (even 120Vac), but the lamp is the limiting factor.
4th digit – The terminal and barrier style, typically a .250” TAB for a quick disconnect connector. For .250 TAB, you should see a 1, 2, A, B, J or K. The barriers are little pieces of plastic that separate the terminals… I typically recommend no barriers if you use insulated connectors.
Here is the full part number spec sheet from Carling (click to see it bigger):