This is the HE-7854 mercury tilt switch.

A fully waterproof 12 volt tilt switch. Where a mechanical pin switch has nothing to press against, a tilt switch triggers on movement instead, which makes it the answer for hatches, camper shells, truck hoods and any panel that lifts rather than swings.

Use it with a relay. This switch is rated at 1 amp maximum and is designed to switch a circuit, not to power one directly. Run it through a relay and it will last.

Specifications

• 12 volt, suitable for negative (ground) or positive switching
• 1 amp maximum current
• 1 x 1 x 1 inch
• Fully waterproof

Note: ships with either a clear or a white shell depending on stock.

Prefer to avoid mercury? Many jurisdictions restrict it on environmental grounds. The Directed 8613 does the same job with a ball bearing instead.