B4 Dragon Run, need ignition help ????

strupgolf · 10-28-2006, 11:19 AM

I've searched but can't find the right answer. On my 86 911, it doesn't happen often, but enough to make me worry. Sometimes the ignition switch starts the car and other (few) times the key turns, but no start. I dont have any lights, guages, etc and its dead. But when you keep turning the switch on and off, it "catches" and starts after maybe 5, 6, 7 or so turns. Battery is good. What should I look for to solve this. I think it has been this way since at least '05, because it did it to me on a trip up north. Thanks for any reply.

Rick V · 10-28-2006, 12:33 PM

Well 1 of 2 things is happening.
1 the eletric portion of the switch is going bad, or not properly attached to the back of the switch.
2 the mechanical portion is falling apart and not turning the eletric portion.
When it happens does the switch "feel" normal?

strupgolf · 10-28-2006, 03:56 PM

Yep, the switch feels normal all the time. I get the spring-back motions on the key. I looked at the back of the switch and all the wires look ok and are attached.

Rick V · 10-28-2006, 04:04 PM

It sounds like the eletric portion of the switch is failing. It may also be that the blade on the back of the mechanical portion is broken to the point it isn't turning the inside of the eletric portion all the time. Remove the eletric portion and see if you can see anything amiss. you can also use a screwdriver to manipulate the eletric portion at this point.
If you can get it to Fontanna, I can get it to work so you can get home. See Ya next week.

RarlyL8 · RarlyL8's Garage

This thread may help you:

CIS Hard Cold Start - If You've Ever Had This Problem PLEASE READ THIS

strupgolf · 10-28-2006, 06:36 PM

RarlyL8, I think mine has the same problem. After getting the key to the start position, it did take much longer to fire than it usually does. Lately it seems to crank more. I thought it was due to my fixing the leaking intake gasket, because it used to start up fast. Great help. Do you see any problems driving to the Gap? Like I said, it happens so rarely that its an after-thought .

RarlyL8 · RarlyL8's Garage

A faulty elecrical pin connector on the ignition switch can manifest itself in many ways.
The most typical is that when the key is turned to the "start" position nothing happens. You have to turn the key to the "off" position and do it again. It will catch after a few times and the starter will engage.
What also likely happens is that the worn pin connectors will not allow full juice to get to the ignition. That is what happenend with mine.
So to answer your question, you might be fine but why risk it? Pelican can get you the part in a day and you can have it swapped out in an evening. It's not a difficult job, you just have to be a contortionist! Ha!
If you're pressed for time just buy the part and take it with you - great insurance and you'll have tons of help should you need it!