ignition on 73 E

[cmcfaul]

Just installed new ignition switch, even sprung for the OEM version.

The tab on the back of the key tumbler is broken so the ignition switch does not turn.

I pulled the ignition switch out, kept the wires attached and turned it with a screwdriver. All works except the starter does not engage.

There are two brown wires connected to a switch on the stalk. What do they do as I apparently broke them as well?

Shouldn't I be able to turn the ignition switch with a screw driver and start the engine? Does the ignition switch itself need to be grounded?

Last question, how do I fix it correctly. Getting it running now is good. Fixing it right is equally important.

Thanks,

Chris
73 911 E

[ossiblue]

Yes, the starter should engaged when you turn the switch with a screwdriver. The yellow wire connected to the ignition switch is the circuit to the starter and the switch does not need to be grounded as it supplies current to the yellow wire. First, be sure the plug is firmly connected to the electrical part of the switch.

If still no luck, you can test to see if your new switch is shunting voltage to the start circuit. Either find the pin on the plug for the yellow wire and find the corresponding hole in the switch, or you can go into the trunk, look behind the cardboard cover under the cowl, and find the wire loom from the ignition--it's easy to spot because the yellow wire is exposed out of the loom just as it leaves the bulkhead--and disconnect the yellow wire at the connector. Using a multimeter or test light, have someone turn the switch to start and see if you get voltage. If not, the switch is defective. BTW, I just replace the electrical part of the switch on my 73 and ran through the same turn-with-a-screwdriver as you to check out the function. What I found is it takes a real twist to move to the start position. Be sure you are twisting as far as the switch allows.

edit: Actually, I reread your post and am not too clear if you bought a new electrical part or a new mechanical part or both. If you only have a new mechanical part, then it's quite possible the electrical switch is faulty at the start circuit--that was my exact problem.

[cmcfaul]

Great info LJ. Are the two wires on the ignition stalk for the fuel enrichment?

Chris

73 911 E

[ossiblue]

Don't know about those two wires as I am not clear where they are and I don't have an MFI system--my car is a 73.5T. Sorry!

[john walker's workshop]

the two wires are for the key buzzer.