Date:         Mon, 31 May 2004 19:35:27 EDT
Reply-To:     DSF70@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dustin Fitch <DSF70@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Eating ignition switches  - yucky
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

If you are familiar with the steering lock housing, lock cylinder and
ignition/starter switch on any of the 85' ish vans, and the tendency of some vans to
eat ignition switches....some say go to the pushbutton (and I'm tempted
actually, especially after two short lived replacements from reliable vendors) and
forgoe the switch all together.  Some may say contrary.  What I do know is that
the engaging pin that pushes out from the lock cylinder and into the plastic
switch when you put the key into the ignition, is quickly wearing out the
switches.  The switches end up with a bit of a mangled opening where the engagin
pin turns it when you turn the key.  Eventually, the switch is worn so much
that the key cannot be turned far enough to engage the ignition switch fully, and
the switch is no good.  Doesn't seem to take long with this van!    I can
also say that the screw holding the ignition switch in place never comes loose or
anything, and the apparatus, when assembled, seems tight.....key goes in
fine........it's just the eating of the switch.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated all....can anyone tell me
definitively which wires, of those that plug into the ignition switch, to use if I
do indeed put in a pushobutton?...anyone know that procedure.......I'm really
all about the pushbutton I think folks..

Thanks
D
'85 Sunroofy