Yes, I have searched and I have seen numerous threads with people asking if the circuit breaker is 30 amp or 40 amp. The threads I have found either do not clearly answer which one or people post a wiring diagram that doesn't say what amperage it is (or I just don't know how to tell). Mine looks like the 30amp one with the mounting holes underneath. Some sites say the T-shape mounts on each side is correct others say the mount underneath is. Is it worth upgrading to the 40amp whether it is correct or not? I have power top, cruise control, power windows, power locks and power seat back release.

 

As long as the wiring will handle 40 amps, you should be fine.

I remember a 70 vista cruiser wagon that had power everything. It had a cocker that accepted 4 series 56 female plugs. If the car had power windows, top, door locks and power seat that would account for all the plugs. I’m betting how the car was optioned determined if it got 30 or 40 amp breakers.

 

Unless you have noticed a problem where the circuit breaker is tripping when using your accessories, there is no reason to go to a higher amperage. When protecting an electrical system, I use the lowest amp that will do the job. My entire Vista Cruiser (other than the starter and air compressor) is powered through a single 50 amp mega fuse. That includes, fuel injection, vintage air, cruise control, power windows (7 windows), power locks (4 doors), power seat, passive keyless entry, electronic shifter, computer controlled air ride, and a lot more. It has never had an issue. My hardtop accessories are powered through a 30 amp breaker (power windows, power locks, power seat back releases, 4-way power driver seat, 2-way power passenger seat) no issues. And after all, even if your 30 amp breaker does trip, you just need to wait for it to cool.

 

Two things:

(1) That part number EL5566Z in your image is the incorrect mounting style for a 40 A circuit breaker if you elect to install a 40 A circuit breaker (see 1970 PIM diagrams below);
(2) IIRC, the circuit breaker amperage rating might be listed in the back of the CSM in the Accessories section.

Here is a link of another discussion. Note w/in this discussion I have included an image of the original OEM circuit breaker on my 1971 CS convertible >>> Post 6

OPGI sells the correct mounting style for a 40 A circuit breaker >>> Circuit Breaker, Power Accessory, 1961-71, 40-Amp Bracket Mount

 

Thanks for the replies, I didn't see a rating anywhere int he CSM either but I'll double check again. Mine is still good, was just wondering if it was 30 amp or 40 amp and whether I should use one over the other. I'll leave well enough alone.

 

I'm having a difficult time understanding this thread. Why don't you remove it and see what is stamped on it?

 

1) I had no idea there was a stamp on it

2) its probably the original breaker, thus coated in the firewall black goo or whatever that is.

3) thus I can't even see the fasteners to take it off

4) after searching and searching I figured it would be an easy answer on here - clearly there was not a definitive answer stating what our cars came with - so,seems to me that my question wasn't that bad of a question.

 

It isn't a bad question, but it's very easy to remove & it should have the amperage indicated exactly as depicted in the image I provided. Mine was a 40 A (1971 CS convertible, PW, Power Top). It may have been a 30 A in 1970. I suggest you remove the (-) battery terminal cable before you remove the circuit breaker & associated wires. I wasn't sure if you were looking for a circuit breaker to install or replace a circuit breaker. It wasn't clear until some Posts later you already have one installed.