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Any replacement ignition switch WITH an accessory position?
Posted: Wed Aug 18, 2004 6:43 pm
by MGVWfan
Anyone know of a switch that'll bolt into the 412 ignition switch lock that has an accessory position? You know, one position lock, next accessory, next ignition, then spring-loaded into the start position? Maybe something from an 80's WCVW? It'd sure be nice to run the radio, etc. without either having to turn the ignition on, or leaving it wired hot all the time like factory.
Posted: Wed Aug 18, 2004 6:55 pm
by Marc
You can fake this feature by using the control lead for the "you left your key in the ignition, dummy" buzzer to control a relay that powers your accessories. Any time the key is in (regardless of position) the relay will be closed; remove the key and power to the accessories is cut.
Posted: Wed Aug 18, 2004 9:30 pm
by raygreenwood
So whats the problem with leaving it wired hot? It was kinda the whole point of leaving it wired hot so you don't have to turn the key to listen to the stereo. Also take note of the two little circular indentions in the dash on either side of the steering column. Those are unused positions for accessory switches. Just grab standard pull knod style defroster switch and install it there for a stereo power cut-off if necessary. If you have amps....about 90% of all new stereos have an amp cut-off feature in the electric antenna circuit lead. When you switch off the power button it kills the amps and antena. Its a very great chance that the lock unit from a rabbit/golf up through the early 90's may fit. But most of those vehicles had direct wired radios too. Ray
I LIKE that idea
Posted: Thu Aug 19, 2004 6:50 pm
by MGVWfan
Using the key-in buzzer switch sounds interesting...thanks for the idea Marc! That'll probably work.
Why have an accessory position...well, I get forgetful sometimes, and having the radio go off when the key's pulled is a good idea for me, believe me! Having it tied to the ignition works, but keeps all the other stuff powered up (A/C, ignition, etc.). I've got minimal drain when not running in "ignition" on my MGB by not having A/C in the first place, installing electronic ignition (also much better cold starting!), and using a fuel pump cutoff device from an 80's Honda (little box with an SCR and some resistors that allows the pump to operate when the ignition is "pulsing", really a safety cutoff in case of accident), so I'm used to the convenience.
BTW, the radio is a Blaupunkt Emden that I used about 25 years ago in my '67 Anglia...it's getting a new set of output transistors and a general going-over, then it'll go back where it belongs (it came from a euro-delivery 411 in the first place).