Ignition Switch Meltdown!

[Pilotdave]

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

[jw hash]

yes, sometimes you have to bend the terminal to clear. they also make a spacer for the outside, that holds the switch out further. I`m in need of one of the spacers myself.

[Pilotdave]

Thanks, JW. I tried "reshaping" the terminals and got a similar result...which may have been the result of damage from the initial smoke screen! The switch fell apart in my hand after the 2nd try.

If I try another of these switches, I will fabricate a spacer!

And tape the terminals as Tom suggests below!

David

[Tom Smith]

I always tape the terminals on after market switches, I also apply an insulating tape to that area of the gas tank.


Tom

[nkaminar]

Sometime in the 1960's I saw a Model A that had burned up, along with the gas station where it was parked at the time. The source was a leaking gas gauge and a faulty ignition switch. At that time there were still wooden gas stations in remote towns.

[larry harding]

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after the spanish pop out switch i was running crapped out i found an ignition switch on ebay? that is sold as a motorcycle switch, it has acc-off-ign and is short and stubby. the screws are n the back of the switch rather than having tabs with screws. i used to pick these up at the auto parts store, but no one carries them now. they will mount on the dash and clear the gas tank with room to spare. i ran this type of switch in the harley i rode for 29 years. the
h d vibration would eventually destroy the tumbler.

[Ernie Vitucci]

Good Morning...It seems to me that by the time you have purchased two inexpensive switches and almost had a fire...a bit more expensive switch from one of the major suppliers would be a better deal...and much less chance of a failure on the road or a fire that burns up your A. Ernie in Arizona