Left side ignition switch conversion-Alternate Idea, Conversion is completed. Options

[jkb944t]

I am considering an alternate plan for a left side ignition switch conversion. My plan is to alter a standard 914-4 steering column to accept a left side 911 ignition switch including the locking feature.

I would remove the right hand ignition switch and possibly fill in the area like some others have done. The other option would be to insert a push button switch instead of the key tumbler and use it to energize a windshield washer pump motor.

I will need to get some dimensions shown on the photo so I know how to modify the standard 914-4 column to accept the 911 ignition switch. It would be very helpful if someone can help with these dimensions.



Jeff B

[jkb944t]

I have restarted working on this project again this week. It was delayed since I had finish so many home projects that I put on hold to finish my 914-6 GT clone last year.

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?sho...9197&st=120

The object of this conversion is to convert a 914-4 steering column to accept a 911 ignition switch on the left side while looking as factory correct as possible. This cuts the conversion cost considerable and makes the wiring modification much easier. When completed it will have a functional steering lock and use the heavier duty 911 ignition switch. Oh, forgot to mention the cool factor too!

After some research and some very helpful dimensional information from SixerJ it was time to proceed with modifying my steering column. The project is going to require several steps to accomplish:

1. Steering housing-cut off existing ignition switch protrusion then machine housing and fabricate filler plate.
2. Steering housing tube-machine window to accept 911 ignition switch and fabricate horseshoe bracket to clamp 911 ignition switch
3. Steering shaft-cut off ignition switch locking tabs and move them three inches down the shaft
4. Dashboard-cut out left switch hole and weld in new 911 ignition switch mounting
5. Modify 914-4 ignition switch wiring to accept 911 ignition switch.

The first step was to cut off the ignition switch protrusion from the side of the housing. This was rather easy to do with a cutoff wheel.



Then I set the housing up in a mill and machined about .08 deep ledge that goes up to where the arrows are pointing.



The machined ledge supports the slightly curved piece of stainless steel the fills in the gap where the ignition switch used to be.



I welded a tab to the stainless and used the existing holes from the old ignition switch housing to mount the filler plate. I still need to paint or powder coat the housing black.



The next step is to machine window to accept 911 ignition switch and fabricate a horseshoe bracket to clamp the 911 ignition switch.





Below shows a test fit up of the ignition switch.



I still have a lot more work to go but I actually think this is going to work.

Jeff B