Ignition Switch Repair

[Dodgebawl]

When I turn the  original ignition switch in my 49 B1B to the full on position it does not sent current to the coil and consequently will not start.  However, if I turn the ignition switch counter clockwise just a fraction the switch will make current contact sending it to the coil. My test light goes on and off when I repeat the process.  All wiring is new and connections are good so I know the problem is within the switch.  What is likely the internal problem with the switch and can it be opened and repaired?

[MBF]

Sounds like the contacts in the switch are dirty.  I've taken the headlight, dash light and heater fan switches apart and cleaned them.  They were pretty easy to do. Bend the tabs that hold the covers on and clean up the contacts and slider.  Never did an ignition switch, so I know know if it can be done, but it sounds like a similar problem.  Mike

[Don Coatney]

Bernbaum sells replacement switches for 65 bucks.

 

http://www.oldmoparts.com/parts-electrical.aspx

[NiftyFifty]

I don't think the ign switches come apart nicely, I know I split and cleaned all the other switches when I first wired my truck, but I can't recall working on it. I believe I went and got a universal one from the local parts store, been working good for last 4 years

[Don Coatney]

I don't think the ign switches come apart nicely, I know I split and cleaned all the other switches when I first wired my truck, but I can't recall working on it. I believe I went and got a universal one from the local parts store, been working good for last 4 years

Curious, does the universal switch have a key start position?

[Plymouthy Adams]

I just picked up a couple of these switches at the local swap meet last year..they do have an acc/off/run/start position with the key....they are anywhere from 4.00 (swap meet find) to about 19.00 at retail outlet each....further..seems most of the later also have the same threads on the bezel for retrofitting as the bezel that comes with them are rather cheap and ugly in appearance..if this concerns you, take your bezel with you to ensure a fit if possible

 

I went through a box of knobs and bezels at the swap and found a very nice one to match the interior of the Volvo one of these switches is destined for..

[Don Coatney]

The key start position world work well as an electric fuel pump carburetor primer if you have an auxiliary electric fuel pump.

[NiftyFifty]

No start, just the acc/off/on which is of course all we need. I was happy with the benzel that came with it, seems to match what you would find on most of this era... It was a Standard Motor Product switch. I run an elec fuel pump in my truck, its less then 1/2 the price of a manual replacement.

[Plymouthy Adams]

that sounds very much like the replacement switch for the old Ford N series tractors..I forgot about that application...(less key start)..I had replaced one of them one time on my 9N many moons ago..

[Don Coatney]

No start, just the acc/off/on which is of course all we need. I was happy with the benzel that came with it, seems to match what you would find on most of this era... It was a Standard Motor Product switch. I run an elec fuel pump in my truck, its less then 1/2 the price of a manual replacement.

Thanks. I may soon be replacing the ignition switch in my P-15 as I suspect that may have been part of my problem with my recent fail to start while 200 miles from home issue.