Ingition/Light switch for a 1953 FM Diesel

[porteous]

I am still working my way through the charging circuit on my tractor and believe the ignition switch may be at fault (the ignition key has to be wiggled to get it to a place where the ignition circuit is actually live, and I think it might also result in the charging circuit being intermittant(?)).

Is this likley? If so can original ignition/light switches still be sourced, or will I need a repro item?

Thanks

[super6954]

Hi Porteous
That's a common problem with the switches needing to be wiggled. according to my dad who farmed with them new the switches could be like that back in the 50's so with another 60 years on them they haven't improved a lot .
I'm guessing they are not available original new by how many repro ones are out there. I have 2 repro here that I got from the U.K, but been too busy on modern stuff to fit them to see how good they are .
I believe the early and later ones have different mounting lugs though so you need the right one .
I'm not 100% sure but i think it will cause problems with charging the way it works as it affects the charge light circuit. . usually my problems are wiring/ regulator/or generator. I just change switches anyway when they don't turn on like yours and ran out of good originals hence the repro's
Regards Robert

[whirly]

FYI ... I fitted a repro from Agriline into my PM last year when I did the wiring and it works just fine. The key is hard to get in and out so I just leave it in. Other than the key it's worked 100%.

[Dandy Dave]

The same for my Power Major. The repro switch has worked very good for a number of years now. Dandy Dave!

[henk]

If you want to save the switch, it can be done. I did mine. You can dismantle it complete. Most time the copper contacts are worn.

[super6954]

If you want to save the switch, it can be done. I did mine. You can dismantle it complete. Most time the copper contacts are worn.

Hi Henk
I have taken them apart before and cleaned them as you say. A person just has to be very careful about it so the crimp lugs don't break off , Or The last one I did flew apart and I lost the timing sequence to all the contacts and switch arm positions . I messed with it for an hour trying to put it back right then got mad and filed it back on the shelf . one day i'll take another apart carefully and fix them both .
Regards Robert