I'm trying to install a ignition switch panel with a starter button in my car. I want the switch to control all power to the car, like turning the key on. From what I have seen, there is a rod that runs along the steering column into the dash that is activated by the key. Do I need to tear into the dash, or are there wires I can tie into at an easier location? Thanks guys!
If you look near the bottom of the steering column on the right side, you will see that the rod goes to the switch down there, which has wires in plain view. No need to tear into the dash.
Make sure you use heavy duty components or a good relay. There is alot of current through those wires.
There are enough wires down there. Any ideas on how I would wire it to mirror the key being turned on?
Take a circuit light(test light) and turn ignition on, when you plug into the ignition wire your circuit light will come on. this will be the ignition wire.
Sounds like you would need two buttons. One to turn on all accesories and ignition, and one (momentary) to crank or start. Now my question, WHY?
Yes he would need a switch that stays on and a starter button to crank the car. I have used a starter button before when an ignition switch has gone bad. But not when I have a good one. You could use the ignition to provide the power then hide a starter button maybe under the dash. Maybe for security.
Some inition switch are expensive. Thats why I HAVE PUT BUTTONS ON. I believe he wants it for LOOKSI have been known to be pretty tight.
Are you trying to clone a Saab? Sounds interesting, but wouldn't you need a 69.5 column or an after market unit that would eliminate the steering wheel lock? Does pulling the ignition from the column leave the locking rod in the open position automatically? If this works out, can you do a tech article on it?
Lol. You guys are funny. Some meathead broke out the key cylinder with a prybar. I put a new one in, but it just turns freely, doesn't engage the gear. I bought a switch board with an ignition flip switch and a start button. Since this is going to be my crazy car, I figured why not. I believe I can disable the column lock, I will have to look. If not, I can leave the ignition in the on position and use a switch to turn it on and off. Then a button to power the starter selonoid. I don't give a crap about security. Nobody will steal this car.
With the lock cylinder removed, you can stick a screw driver in and turn the rod to any position you want, including the ON position where the steering column isn't locked. I would still want to figure out a way to be sure that the lock cannot slowly work it's way back and reengage over time. Would suck to just be driving along one day and have the steering wheel suddenly lock up! The ignition will be in the ON position by default when you remove the lock cylinder.
