Starter switch

Discuss all things Model T related.
Forum rules
If you need help logging in, or have question about how something works, use the Support forum located here Support Forum
Complete set of Forum Rules Forum Rules

Topic author
greenacres36
Posts: 156
Joined: Sun Sep 27, 2020 3:50 pm
First Name: Brian
Last Name: Williams
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Tudor, 1915 Runabout
Location: Prospect, Ohio

Starter switch

Post by greenacres36 » Sun Oct 03, 2021 4:00 pm

Is there a source for a reliable starter switch? Seems like I’m installing a new one every couple of months. They just feel cheap. Next thing you know you have to wiggle your foot around to make them make contact on the inside. I’ve tried a couple from two different vendors and even adopted one from a local farm supply store. I’m about ready to give up and put a solenoid and push button on it that would be a last resort. I’d almost rather hand crank.

Brian

User avatar

Humblej
Posts: 1957
Joined: Sun Jan 06, 2019 12:23 pm
First Name: Jeff
Last Name: Humble
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Canadian coupe, 1924 TT C-cab, 1924 runabout
Location: Charlevoix, Mi
Board Member Since: 2006

Re: Starter switch

Post by Humblej » Sun Oct 03, 2021 4:30 pm

Forget the repop stuff, try to find an original. Langs has original parts, swap meets, and a WTB in the MTFCA classifieds.

User avatar

TRDxB2
Posts: 6260
Joined: Tue Jan 08, 2019 4:56 pm
First Name: Frank
Last Name: Brandi
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: Speedsters (1919 w 1926 upgrades), 1926 (Ricardo Head)
Location: Moline IL
Board Member Since: 2018

Re: Starter switch

Post by TRDxB2 » Mon Oct 04, 2021 1:04 am

The issue with the reproduction starter switches has been discussed several time. Your observation of wiggling the switch to make it work is why it fails and then necessary to make it work. If the switch looks like the photos the problem has to do with how the plunger sleeve is attached to the base plate . Any rocking motion will cause it to loosen around the bent tabs at its base. Personally, I prefer push button & starter solenoid but if you need to be "original" then the only option is an refurbished original
https://mtfca.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php? ... ch#p140154
IMG_1743.JPG
Attachments
IMG_1742.JPG
sw2.jpg
sw2.jpg (66.87 KiB) Viewed 1223 times
The past is a great place and I don't want to erase it or to regret it, but I don't want to be its prisoner either.
Mick Jagger


Topic author
greenacres36
Posts: 156
Joined: Sun Sep 27, 2020 3:50 pm
First Name: Brian
Last Name: Williams
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Tudor, 1915 Runabout
Location: Prospect, Ohio

Re: Starter switch

Post by greenacres36 » Mon Oct 04, 2021 4:48 am

Thank you so much for all the info. I think solenoid it will be.

Post Reply Previous topicNext topic