MSD Ignition 8961 User Manual

MSD RELAYS
PN 8961, Single-Pole, Double-Throw, 30 Amp/12 VDC
PN 8960, Double-Pole, Double-Throw, 30 Amp/12 VDC
MSD Relays will allow you to activate a variety of accessories that require high current. These are
ideal to tie in with an rpm activated switch to control a nitrous or air shifter solenoid.
The benefit of a relay is that it can be energized using a small amount of power (12V/1 Amp). This
moves the relay's armature so it can transfer a large amount of power (12V/30 Amp) to activate a
high current device.
• The PN 8960 will handle a 30 Amp load, on each side, with an input voltage of 12 volts.
• The PN 8961 Relay will handle a 30 Amp load and is ideal for multiple accessories.
Following is a short description of the operation of a relay. A variety of wiring schematics are also
included to help with your installation.
Relays are very simple devices and consist of four basic parts:
• A small coil (sometimes referred to as a bobbin or electromagnet)
• An armature
• A spring
• A set of electrical contacts
Relays consist of two separate and completely independent circuits; the Controller circuit and Switch
circuit. In Figure 1 the Controller circuit is on the bottom and it controls the power to the electromagnet.
When 12 volts are supplied through the switch, the coil is energized. When energized, it attracts the
armature of the Switch circut.
The Switch circuit consists of an armature, spring and contacts for the high current side. The armature
is a switch and will complete or open the high current circuit. When the coil of the relay is energized, it
attracts the armature from one electrical contact to another to complete the circuit. When the coil is not
energized the spring pulls (or pushes) the armature back and the high current circuit is opened.
Figure 1 General Relay.
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MSD Ignition 8961 Specifications

General

Brand	MSD Ignition
Model	8961
Category	Relays
Language	English

Summary

MSD Relays Overview

Relay Operation and Components

Explains the benefit of relays, their basic parts (coil, armature, spring, contacts), and how they function.

MSD Relay Specifications

Details the amp load and input voltage for PN 8960 and PN 8961 relays, ideal for accessories.

MSD Relay Applications

MSD Relay Pinouts

Diagrams showing the internal layout and pin locations for PN 8961 and PN 8960 relays.

Connecting RPM Activated Switch and Relay

Wiring diagram for using an RPM activated switch with a PN 8961 relay to control a solenoid.

Electric Fuel Pump Connection

Wiring schematic for connecting an electric fuel pump using an MSD relay.

Nitrous Solenoid Connection

Wiring diagram for connecting a nitrous solenoid at launch using a PN 8960 relay.

Two Step Clutch Switch Connection

Wiring diagram for a two-step ignition control with a clutch switch and PN 8960 relay.

Multiple Nitrous Solenoids Connection

Wiring diagram for controlling multiple nitrous solenoids with a PN 8960 relay.

MSD Service and Warranty

MSD Service Policy

Details the procedure for returning MSD components for repair and warranty service.

MSD Limited Warranty

Outlines the one-year warranty period, exclusions, and limitations for MSD products.