ignition switch problem

[jcwade]

I'm having an intermittent problem with my ignition switch.
Sometimes it starts right up and sometimes I have to
play around with the key and turn it and wiggle it in order for it to turn over. I can anticipate not being able to start it at all and would be very thankful for any ideas as to the problem
and/or the solution.

This board has been very helpful and I know someone has experienced the same thing in the past.

I have a '76 2.0 w/FI.

thanks

john

[WOODPIE]

John

Sounds like the ignition switch to me, too. Order a new one from PP and replace it before it leaves you standed. If I had this problem, I'd buy two switches, one for now, and one for later. These switches arc at the contact points, and only last just so long because of it.

Replacing involves pulling the steering wheel, and turn signal/ wiper control stalks to access the switch.

I think.

Ed

[sstine9]

easy!!! order 2 switches (they are cheap and down the road you will use the 2nd one) ,,go to the tech site here at Pelican and print the info out on removing the steering wheel and the info on relacing the ignition switch and in less than 2 hours you will be at peace with the universe!!

[Kenny Powell]

Could be the Key switch.........the metal piece that turns the electrical portion or both, in my case it was both

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

Probably just the plastic electrical switch is broken. Youll have to remove the lower knee pad to access one of the bolts, then remove the wiper and turn signal switches, then remove the ignition switch not too hard to do..

Check this out...
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/914_ignition_switch/914_ignition_switch.htm

[Ferrell]

Sometimes my key will not turn at all! I have to wiggle the key around and try to turn it at the same time until it will engage. Is this a common problem and will the above post cure my situation as well?

[Ferrell]

jcwade, I just read your post again. Is your trouble with actually turning the key as is mine? Sorry if I am stepping on your post but I think we have the same problem. Cheers!

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

If that is the case, then the lock cylinder (or the tumblers inside it) may be the problem. Or the key--they do eventually get old and worn.

--DD

[jcwade]

The key turns fine. the problem is having the engine turn over.
But I got the steering wheel off and will pick up the new ignition switch today. I'll let you know if that is the problem.

john

[yoh!!!]

I encountered the same problem lately... I followed the article and noticed that the PO did a crappy job eliminating the seat belt relay stuff. I soldered the two big yellow cables under the passenger seat together and insulated well. No problems since.

By the way... the ign. switch is used in a variety of other VW products (e.g. my 90's Vanagon). The switch will be available for some time...


Patrick

[jcwade]

I got the new ignition switch in and it worked great!
Thanks for the tech article, it was just what I needed.

However, there was a little difference between my steering
column and the one described and pictured in the article.
Was there any difference in the 76 column and the others?
Just curious.

thanks,

john

[Jim Smolka]

In '75 the switch was changed. The tech article is great, but there are a few differences when dealing with a later 914

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Also in dealing with an early 914...

--DD