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My GPW Eats Ignition Switches |
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mrbill ![]() Member ![]() Joined: 23 Jan. 2011 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 29 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Posted: 05 May 2020 at 5:23pm |
I'm getting ready to replace the toggle type ignition switch in my 1945 GPW for the third year in a row. I'm not sure what the first one was but I've had both MV Spares and Joe's Motor Pool replacements. If I put a jumper from the (6V) battery to the battery side of the coil it starts right up. Aside from the ammeter there is nothing on that circuit to cause a problem. The MV Spares wiring harness is less than 5 years old and the ammeter appears to work as it should. Anything else I can check while I'm waiting for the next replacement? Based on past experience, as soon as I replace the switch I'll be good for another summer driving season. Bill |
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WeeWilly ![]() Member ![]() Sponsor Member x 2 Joined: 07 May 2009 Location: Clayton IN Status: Offline Points: 3300 |
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That does sound strange to have them to go bad that fast. Have you tested the old ones to make sure they are bad with a continuity test? Try jumping the wires right at the switch to make sure the rest of the circuit is good. Jim
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47 CJ2A (Ranch Hand) 48 CJ2A, 48 Willys truck, T3C 3782, M274 (Military Mule)
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mrbill ![]() Member ![]() Joined: 23 Jan. 2011 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 29 |
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Jim, FWIW, I tested the two switches I still have and they show about 1.5 ohms resistance each. I got a new reproduction switch today and went to put it in and one of the electrical studs fell off. I was able to push it back on and start the jeep with it in place. So, not a big fan of the reproductions. I'd love to find a NOS or take-out to see if I have better luck. Bill |
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CJ2A60 ![]() Member ![]() Joined: 11 July 2022 Location: Texas Status: Offline Points: 81 |
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How long are your points lasting?
If they are wearing out frequently, you might have a bad condenser. A bad condenser can make arcs appear in all sorts of places you wouldn't ordinarily expect to see them, like across the contacts of an ignition switch. |
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Ron D ![]() Member ![]() Joined: 27 Oct. 2019 Location: South Carolina Status: Offline Points: 787 |
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Switches are manufactured and rated for a certain amount of current (amps) and voltage. Exceeding the ratings causes failure sooner or later. Yes, you can measure current and voltage going through the switch. Resistance (continuity) checks have only basic limited troubleshooting value. Good luck trying to find published ratings on these switches, especially repops, especially if made off shore.
Edited by Ron D - 02 Aug. 2022 at 9:08pm |
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1951 M38
1951 M100 |
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