removing ignition switch from the barrel on a 68 bug

17 posts · joined Oct 2007 · 13 Oct 2007, 5:26 pm

#616339

hey, I'm frustrated!.. gotta replace the ignition switch on my 68 beetle... got the housing out... got the barrel out (after FINALLY finding the little hole where you stick a piece of wire in to release the spring thing)

my question:
what the dickens holds the ignition plug thing in the back of the housing?? I can see that there is a little pin with splines on it holding the plate in the middle, but the ignition switch seems to be really solid in there! what am I missing?? I got the replacement switch all ready to go, but... :duh

Bizarre Moderator The artist formerly known as blue74l

12,789 posts · joined Aug 2002 · 13 Oct 2007, 6:12 pm

#616346

G'day Happy

Have a read here and see if it helps

http://www.vw-resource.com/ignition_switch_replacement.html#ignition

1968 thru 1971 Models -
Insert the key into the lock cylinder and turn the key slightly, then pull the cylinder out until the retaining spring on the top or side is visible in the opening.

Using a nail or a piece of steel wire inserted through the hole in the lock assembly’s housing, depress the retaining spring on the lock cylinder while pulling the lock cylinder out.

Remove the lock cylinder by turning the key all the way to the 'start' position and pulling the lock cylinder out of the housing.

Barry

Futue te ipsum!!!

Joel Now containing 100\% E-Wang

9,368 posts · joined Feb 2006 · 13 Oct 2007, 7:22 pm

#616361

from memory theres a tiny little blade screw in the side of it
think u get at it from below where the wiring comes out

xornge666x Wolfsburg Wizard

460 posts · joined Sep 2006 · 13 Oct 2007, 11:44 pm

#616394

yep, little grub/set screw in the side of the barrel that holds the ignition blocl (elec switch part) in.
If you have the new one, you should be able to see where the screw will be on the old one.

Rota_Motor

Former member · 19 Oct 2007, 7:19 pm

#617334

silly question, where do I find a new ignition switch to suit a 68 beetle, and do switches from other models fit, and do the wires plug in anywhere, or do I need to cut and splice the new switch in??

oh yeah, this is because Danielles ignition switch self destructed when I was in there trying to figure out the horn wiring.

68AutoBug Beetle Restorer - Experience over 138\% - YIKES --

11,654 posts · joined Aug 2002 · 19 Oct 2007, 8:30 pm

#617341

I've never seen a new electrical part of the ignition switch for a 1968 beete.
as you know they habe the wires soldered onto the switch...

I really don't know whether a switch from a 1971 super would fit...
maybe a complete assembly from later model beetle will fit
??
I have a spare for My 68 beetle but its only one I've ever come across, so I bought it for a spare..

I don't know what holds it all together on a later model
with push on connectors.

Lee

- Helping keep Air Cooled VWs on the road - location: SCONE in the Upper Hunter Valley - Northern NSW 320 kms NNW of SYDNEY---