Ignition Switch

[howardpdavis]

Hi,
Trouble starting my 1964 1800S. Sometimes starter motor does not engage.I have changed starter motor, relay and ignition barrel. I think it might be the ignition switch, but I understand this comes attached to armoured cable and ignition coil which are hard to find. i believe there is a work around although I would prefer to keep original set up.
Does anyone have this part for sale?
How easy/difficult is the fitting?
What are the alternatives?
thanks
Howard

[123GT-AMAZON]

I posted a reply in wanted section if it’s any use to you

Kind regards
Robert.w

[Ron Kwas]

Howard;

Having changed some components, I will figure you will understand and appreciate a detailed explanation and instructions, and it will be based on a factory stock setup, otherwise it is important for you to state any deviations from how vehicle was configured by factory (Elec Ign, etc.)...

Reference 1800 Wiring Diagram: http://www.sw-em.com/1800%20Wiring%20Diagram.jpg

If you have already changed some components (although I don't know what you mean by "relay", unless you are calling Starter Solenoid that...there is no relay involved in the starting process unless you have a very rare vehicle with an Automatic Gearbox), but symptoms remain, it might be the Ign Sw...but it might also be a more simple thing like the wire on Terminal 50 of the Ign Sw...so before considering alternatives (and before changing any other components!), I would say its important to fully understand the root cause of the symptoms...your '64 1800 indeed has the Ign Sw-Armored Cable- Ign Coil Assembly (an effective anti-theft provision before the days of Steering Column Locks), and this does present some special requirements in troubleshooting and making changes, not to mention the fatigued key breakage**, but this assembly has a highly reliable track record.

First, I'd check all connections and wiring having to do with Starting, are clean, free of corrosion and snug. These are: Bat(both!), Ign Sw, St Sol (Terms 50, 30), Chassis Braid (located at exhaust collector)...also, assure a good state of charge of Bat (measure >12.6V after about 1 hour after stopping engine).

Next, I presume you are still using the Ign Key for Starting**...I would connect a Voltmeter to Terminal 50 of at back of Ign Sw (single White/Red wire, yes it will require some contortions to access...sorry!...and before connecting meter clip, check to assure wire connector is snugly on Terminal Stud under securing nut...and check for this on other Ign Sw terminals while you are there!) and monitor voltage as you turn key to Pos 4 for Starting...this is output of Ign Sw to St Solenoid, and should always indicate power when Key is in Pos 4...if voltage is ever not indicated at this terminal, problem is within Ign Sw, or upstream...if voltage is indicated but Solenoid and St remain inactive, problem is downstream at St or its power supply...

**... it is also a well known and understood weakness that Ign Keys fail due to material fatigue (suggested reading: http://www.sw-em.com/ignition_switch...ch_article.htm ). I highly recommend you consider installing a Star Sw Upgrade to prevent this fatigue and key breakage...(this certainly interplays with your symptoms), so it is recommended, but importantly not before fully understanding root cause of your symptoms).

Please report findings, and Good Hunting!

[howardpdavis]

Thanks Ron, wow! A lot of very useful advice. That’s going to keep me busy!
Cheers
Howard