Ignition switch removal, How to remove from a 1971 Options

[erwindv]

I own a 1971 914 and lately I've been having trouble starting it.
The car only starts if I wiggle the key a bit back and forth while turning it.
I also bypassed the starter switch by connecting the starter directly to the battery.
So in my opinion, the problem is the ignition switch.
Only issue: removing it on a 1971 model doesn’t seem to be as straightforward as described on the Pelican Parts (which covers models after 1971).

Is there anyone who can point me in the right direction or provide instructions on how this should be done?

Should I unbolt and remove the steering casing (see image)?

[TheCabinetmaker]

What's the last 5 numbers of the vin? They changed ignition switches mid year

[TheCabinetmaker]

Looks like you have an early model. The key switch is mostly likely coming apart on the rear of the switch. It's easy to remove the key switch only. The electrical portion is a bitch to remove from the column. It involves dismantling the 10 or 12 pin connector to pull the wires out of the column to replace it. All of the pins have to be unsoldered for the wires. The early electrical switch is metal instead of plastic like the later models and more robust. Send me a pm and I can walk you thru the process.

[mepstein]

This is an old but very good thread that explains how to remove the lock on an early steering column. I put my phone on the dash, followed it through step by step and had success. If I can, you can. Put a little dish on the dash to collect small parts while you do the work.

http://www.914world.com/specs/rekey.php

The base piece on the lock can crack but can be jb welded/epoxied back together.

[VaccaRabite]

If it were me, I'd convert it to a 72+ steering column and ignition switch.

The problem is that the 70-71 is a total bitch to change the switch. Which is to say that you can't easily change it without replacing the entire steering hub. Its an absolutely horrible design that suggests that these cars were not intended to last long enough for the switches to fail.

Zach

[mepstein]

If it were me, I'd convert it to a 72+ steering column and ignition switch.

The problem is that the 70-71 is a total bitch to change the switch. Which is to say that you can't easily change it without replacing the entire steering hub. Its an absolutely horrible design that suggests that these cars were not intended to last long enough for the switches to fail.

Zach

That’s a lot of time and money. Mount is completely different on the early cars and the late ones don’t just bolt on. The switches are different. Wiper is on the dash on early cars. The wires and plugs are different. That would be a major undertaking for just a switch change. And from what I understand, the later repro switches suck.

[914sgofast2]

I have an early 1970 model year 914. The metal steering column cover needs to be removed in order to get access to the rear of the ignition switch. That said, the upper steering column and ignition switch was just sourced by Porsche from the VW Parts Bin and is physically and electrically the same as a 1970-71 VW Bug. However, the color coding of the wiring might be different if I remember correctly.

The biggest problem at this time is that the reproduction replacement ignition switches are generally of mediocre to poor quality.

Actually changing the electrical portion of the ignition switch is pretty easy and straightforward. It is held into the metal lock cylinder by a couple of very small screws. That is why you have to remove the upper steering column as a unit from the bottom of the dashboard so you will have access to the locking portion of the steering column.