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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6 |
The ignition switch on my 23 Roadster was by passed several owners past so I assume the switch has failed.They added a series of toggle switches and made a mess of the wiring so my goal is to undo this mess and start over. I want to remove the switch without damaging it so that I can make an attempt at repair and if that fails find a replacement. I don't have a key but the switch moves back and forth. After removing the two screws that holds the switch to the dash what should be the next step? Does the switch have to be in a certain position to remove? Any thoughts on bench repairs? :confused: :confused: :confused:
Thanks,
Bob
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
The key (bad choice of words) to your switch is the small cylinder in the center of the lever where the key enters. That cylinder is pot metal and usually swollen and cracked. The two screws is all that holds the switch in the dash. There will be several wires to remove from the backside. Careful on opening up the switch as several small pieces are poised to make a get-a-way. 
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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Joined: Dec 2001
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ChatMaster - 750
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ChatMaster - 750
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 845 |
Gary Wallace now sells a reproduction die cast cylinder for those early ignition switches.
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6 |
After removing the two screws the switch will not move. Does the cylinder and handle pull out of the electrical part of the switch? If the cylinder has swelled could this be what's holding the switch? Haven't used much force. :confused:  :confused:
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Joined: Dec 2001
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Backyard Mechanic
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Backyard Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 305 |
I have carefully bent the tabs on the back of the switch that hold the back of the switch on. As AntiqueMechanic said, do this carefully to make sure that you see how it comes apart. If I remember correctly, there are only a few parts inside. The switch is very basic, as when you rotate the two parts, they simply contact the different posts where the wires are attached. There were two different keys used on all 1923's. If nessicary, I can trace one of my keys and you can cut it out of 20 gauge sheet steel if nessicary. That's about all my keys are. Good Luck and let us know when you get it fixed.
Chris
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6 |
I didn't do a very good job of posting my follow up question. I'm still trying to remove the switch from the dash. Here's what I have. In the front of the dash I have the cyclinder,lever, and bezel along with the two screws. In the back I have the main electrical part of the switch. After I remove the screws the switch will not come loose. I haven't done any prying or used much force. Any suggestions on the next step. If I should use some force where should it be applied? Thanks, Bob 
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6
Grease Monkey
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OP
Grease Monkey
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6 |
Thanks Ray and Chris for your help. After reviewing your suggestions I decided I needed to apply a little tender loving force to get the switch out. It was in the dash so tight with 82 years of rust and paint that I didn't realize it just pushed through the dash.  Well it's out and like Ray said it's only held in my the two screws. Now we'll see if it can be saved. Thanks, Bob :) :) :)
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
If you need help with the switch I would be glad to do so. 
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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