Ignition Switch Problems
 

I know that the ignition switch is a longtime, chronic problem on the T. I have had problems for quite awhile. I had it rebuilt but the problem persists.


I turn it to battery, I get no contact. Sometime giggling helps.


Question: Do others have similar problems? Give me a solution.


Question: Has anyone tried the Lang's replacement?


Question: Who is the best rebuilder in Model T Land?


Just need to know if I am alone with this problem.


PS - I have a 24 T.

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

It is a common problem.

The worst part is the diecast center that the key goes into. If you are able to take your key in and out, and turn the switch on and off, your diecast center is probably OK.

You can CAREFULLY take the ignition switch apart by removing the contact/terminal plate. Some are pin type that are twisted off, the others have tabs that will need to be CAREFULLY bent to get it off. Once inside, the copper contacts can be removed for cleaning. Try CAREFULLY bending them so they will make better contact with the back of the contact/terminal plate. Clean the contact on the back of the terminal as well. You can also carefully sand the back of the terminal to make it level if it is warped.

I believe Lang sells a good quality replacement contact/terminal plate. Some of the others that have been made in the past are not good.

These switches are really simple, so be careful and you should be able to make it work OK.

Keep an eye out for a better original. They do come up for sale.

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

I do not use the type of switch that has tabs holding the back. The type that has pins is much better and the actual "tub" that holds the parts can be changed with two small rivets.

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Unless there has been some changes and suppliers have stock, the switch backs have been out of stock for a while. If the spider is not making contact and holding, the back may no longer be flat and detents are worn. Can be fixed. Lots of times the paper used is warped or coming a part. Once you get it apart maybe post some photos and we can try to make suggestions on the next step. Google "mtfca switch repair" I can't think of the guys name but there is someone that can rebuild it.

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Ben Martin is the "go-to" guy for T switch repair.

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Just a note. I had a similar problem. My ignition switch seemed ok with ohm meter.
I tracked it down to a bad ampmeter. Got a new one problem fixed. Seems everything
goes threw the amp meter. All I know is wiring is correct per the book..

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Ben Martin is the man! He has rebuilt two for me and both came back better than new, powder coated and working like a champ.
Ben is in Georgia and most pleasant to talk with.
Jon Crane

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Thanks for the help. I sent the ignition to Ben Martin yesterday.


Tom

Re: Ignition Switch Problems
 

Great thread Tom as my ignition switch seems to be working better with no problems after raising the pin tabs in the switch and I have wrapped a small amount of scotch tape near the end of my key to take out the play it had in the tumbler.

Have several 26/27 switches I will have set out this fall, thanks for the contact.