Details on installing push button switch to bypass ignition switch?

[g. faircloth]

I've decided to bypass ignition switch to save the headache of replacing ignition switch, cylinder, housing, etc and what else maybe causing no resistance to key turning on 82 300D - everything lights up but no final ignition. What's the best way to install PB switch? One wire from switch directly to battery - battery to silenoid, silenoid to switch? Wire size requirement? Whats best place to access inside of car - or drill? Thanks for any advice.

[KAdams4458]

That will be a bigger headache than you can imagine. Are you sure it wouldn't be easier to just buy a new ignition switch for $30? The resistance you speak of, what returns the key to position 2 on its own after turning the key to start, is provided solely by the electrical ignition switch. They're cheap and pretty easy to replace.

[g. faircloth]

I've read several threads and it seems like taking out cylinder to get to ignition switch - paper clips, beveled edges, lower steering column, steering lock pin, majic wand, etc - maybe it sounds moe complicated and frustrating than it is? I thought a bypass would simplify things?

[Oracle12345]

replacing the ignition switch isnt that hard .....

remove the 10mm holding the clamp together and put the key in and turn it to remove the plug connector......

[KAdams4458]

Originally Posted by Oracle12345

replacing the ignition switch isnt that hard .....

remove the 10mm holding the clamp together and put the key in and turn it to remove the plug connector......

Pretty much it.

In a pinch, I pulled one in a salvage yard without doing anything more than wiggling the electrical plug off the back, and blindly removing the three common screws with a stubby screwdriver.

Just remember to disconnect the battery before you start. At some point, you'll get the bright idea of using a screwdriver to help with wiggling off the electrical plug, and you don't want to be sticking metal around there with power to it.

[g. faircloth]

Thanks for the advice...I'll go back to trying to replace ignition switch. I took off the kicker panel and there seems to be alot going on down there?! Lots of wires going to one cylindrical silver piece - the switch I imagine?? This piece will come apart? ...and replace only back half - the switch? Is there a link to see this work done? Thanks again for helping me decide to this the right way.

[funola]

I had the same problem in my 240D. If you can get the tumbler out, use a big screw driver and see if you can turn the ign switch on the column. If it turns and starts, the problem is in the tumbler not turning all the way. I was able to fix my tumbler by washing it repeatedly in Zep Citrus cleaner to get the sticky gunk out. The gunk was what caused my tumbler to jam and not turn all the way.

[mobetta]

Originally Posted by g. faircloth

Thanks for the advice.....and replace only back half - the switch? Is there a link to see this work done? Thanks again for helping me decide to this the right way.

if you run PC, you can get epc net(electronic parts catalog) for free. while it is not a step by step, it can help to see it all laid out there.

a quick search will net you the details.

[KAdams4458]

I'll try to take some pictures of the switch and wiring and how they go together for you. Should help, unless someone beats me to it.

[g. faircloth]

The pics would be great!!! I've ordered the switch and hope to have my son back in his car soon -- and out of my mine!! Things look tight under there but can the switch be replaced without pulling everything out?

[Oracle12345]

I have my windsheild and dash out of the car atm it would be easy for me take some picts.

[KAdams4458]

Originally Posted by g. faircloth

The pics would be great!!! I've ordered the switch and hope to have my son back in his car soon -- and out of my mine!! Things look tight under there but can the switch be replaced without pulling everything out?

Again, I pulled an electrical switch out of a junkyard car using only a stubby screwdriver. It's tight, but doable. Getting it back in will be tougher. For the sake of simplicity, it may really be best to unlock the ignition and rotate the assembly so that the switch is aimed down and you can actually see the three screws you need to remove and replace.

Pictures pending after I get some coffee and make a run to the parts store.

[Simpler=Better]

I have a pushbutton start. The key now locks the wheel, and provides power to the start button.

[Oracle12345]

attached is a picture of the ignition switch

[KAdams4458]

Beat me to it. I just sat down with my camera to upload my photos.

Sigh.