Replacing Rain Bird 1260BI with Irritrol Rain Dial

Simple Controller Upgrade: 1260BI → Rain Dial

The Rain Bird 1260BI is a mechanical 12-station controller. Upgrading to an Irritrol Rain Dial (6, 9, or 12 station) is straightforward but not strictly "plug-and-play."

Key Wiring Steps

1. Label every field wire at the old controller with numbered tape (1–12, C for common, MV/PUMP if used).
2. Disconnect old controller; mount new Rain Dial.
3. Reconnect wires to matching terminals: #1→1, #2→2, etc., Common→C.
4. Connect 120 VAC: Black→Line, White→Neutral, Green→Ground.
5. Install 9 V backup battery.

Why Rain Dial?

• Solid-state reliability (no motors to fail).
• Easy programming: dial positions for Time, Start Times, Run Times, Days.
• Seasonal adjust (0–200%), multiple programs, rain sensor input.

Pro Tip

Buy from an irrigation supply store (Ewing, SiteOne, local distributor)—they'll verify compatibility and often provide a wiring diagram for your specific model.