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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ How do I get this damned switch out

Posted by: lawrencedesigns Oct 30 2004, 10:46 AM

In trying to replace my starter switch, I have run into a snag. Pelican tells me there should be two screws holding the key mechanism in. In my 76, there is no such screws...
How do I get this mechanism out without destroying it?

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Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 30 2004, 10:49 AM

Your 76 is "newer" or different than the pre 74' ones. I cannot remember how, but there are no screws (in the same place anyway). Keep looking?

Posted by: ejm Oct 30 2004, 10:54 AM

The lock is held in by a springy tab. If if has never been changed before you'll need to drill a hole in the housing to push on the tab. Look at the new lock cylinder and use it as a guide for the hole location.

Posted by: lawrencedesigns Oct 30 2004, 11:04 AM

Thanks Ed. Unfortunately, I don't have a new cylinder. I am only replacing the plastic switch.
I will just have to keep working on it.....

Posted by: vsg914 Oct 30 2004, 11:18 AM

Keith, before you start drilling holes, check this out.

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?act=ST&f=2&t=15253&hl=ignition+switch+removal

Posted by: Aaron Cox Oct 30 2004, 12:27 PM

i know how on a 73/74 car...but that dunt help

Posted by: Cloudbuster Oct 30 2004, 04:30 PM

Just did this last week on a '75.

Remove the circlip on the left end of the shaft (circled in red). Pull the hex-head bolt holding the switch assembly to the column underneath (red arrow). You don't need to remove the circlip that hold the bearing to the switch assembly. The switch assembly will come off the shaft with medium effort. A small phillips screw holds in the switch assebly.

PS I hope you got a factory Porsche switch. It is well worth the $35. The $12 aftermarket part available from everywhere else wears out quickly and/or doesn't work reliably. I hate asking strangers for a push start.

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Posted by: lawrencedesigns Oct 30 2004, 06:59 PM

Thanks...I got it apart.
I drove over to Performance Products and got a $17.00 Switch. Have I screwed up?

Posted by: Cloudbuster Oct 30 2004, 11:50 PM

The cheap switch works. But not as well as the expensive one. Now that you have the hang of swapping the switch, no biggie. If you start having odd symptoms of intermittent headlights, hot start problems and other electrical issues, switch the switch first.