Second ignition switch failed? Options

[Sprout]

A little guidance, please...I've replaced the ignition switch in my '73 1.7 FI twice now with Meistersatz parts, and the car is dead again. Has only been started a couple dozen times between these two switches. When I turn the key, I have lights on the dash and can hear the fuel pump engage, but the engine does not crank. Battery is at 12.5 and just installed a reman Bosch starter/solenoid. It can be push-started.

From what I've read the switches seem to fail fairly often, but only starting the car a dozen times per switch seems pretty ridiculous. Are the genuine Porsche switches that much better?

Do you think I could have something shorting out the switch? The 914 key is the only thing on my keyring, so I know it's not an extra weight problem.

When it's running, it runs great!

[Sprout]

Well, easy come, easy go. I picked up my OEM ignition switch from the local dealership. Parts guy was SUPER nice! There were several posters of 914s on the walls around the dealership. Great to see that!

Then, I tried to talk to a service guy about working on it, since the parts guy was confident they would. He shut me down immediately and said there was nobody there who could work on a 914, only old 911s. Wasn't the technology pretty much the same in '73? I asked if they were planning to learn, since Porsche is taking a direct interest in classics, and he said "not at your expense."

I looked down at the Originale parts book, the new Christophorus magazine with 914s on the cover, and the 914 poster hanging over his head...and left.

At least I have a local source for parts if needed!