The Ford Barn

Pilotdave · 07-27-2025, 12:03 PM

I recently replaced a dead ignition switch in our '31 roadster with the $10 switch currently available. I tested it before reinstalling the instrument panel and all seemed well. After I reinstalled the instrument panel, smoke began pouring out of the panel area. Thank goodness for kill switches!! After removing the panel, it was clear that the new switch was the source of the smoke.

I'm suspecting that meltdown was caused by the terminals on the new switch touching the gas tank behind the panel. I'm wondering if others have had similar experiences with these switches.....and/or if there's a cure - aside from buying a more expensive switch!

Thanks!
David

07-27-2025, 12:03 PM	#1
Pilotdave Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Grafton, MA Posts: 1,273	Ignition Switch Meltdown! I recently replaced a dead ignition switch in our '31 roadster with the $10 switch currently available. I tested it before reinstalling the instrument panel and all seemed well. After I reinstalled the instrument panel, smoke began pouring out of the panel area. Thank goodness for kill switches!! After removing the panel, it was clear that the new switch was the source of the smoke. I'm suspecting that meltdown was caused by the terminals on the new switch touching the gas tank behind the panel. I'm wondering if others have had similar experiences with these switches.....and/or if there's a cure - aside from buying a more expensive switch! Thanks! David