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Dashboard toggle switches for BJ8 - exact match?

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SteveHall64Healey

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The toggle switch for the headlights and running lights on my BJ8 has failed, and I'm looking to replace it.


I had previously purchased one of these switches from Moss when I added Lucas driving lights, but it was not an exact match with those already on the dash. This slight mismatch didn't matter much because I located the switch for the Lucas driving lights below the dash and not adjacent to the existing toggle switches.


Now that I have to replace one that will be adjacent to the original switches, does anyone have recommendation as to where I can get one that would be an exact match?
thanks
steve
 
I agree with Tahoe but suggest you also apply a good amount of dielectric grease in the switch as well. Also, take a look at the paddles used in the switch and realize that your total draw for lighting is passing through them and the wiring that powers them (the reason I suggest the installation of relays).

Good luck,
Ray (64BJ8P1)
 
Maybe Holden has switches that are close enough.
 
Check too to see if the paddle will come off the old switch if rebuilding doesn't work. The main body of most Lucas switches are the same for two and three position switches other than those with a resistor built in. I've gotten new Lucas before and swapped paddles so they look the same, and have the same patina as the others.
 
RAC68 said:
I agree with Tahoe but suggest you also apply a good amount of dielectric grease in the switch as well. Also, take a look at the paddles used in the switch and realize that your total draw for lighting is passing through them and the wiring that powers them (the reason I suggest the installation of relays).

Good luck,
Ray (64BJ8P1)
Click to expand...

No Ray
Dielectric grease is not a good idea here. This is because a Dielectric is designed to prevent electrical conduction between parts. On the other hand, a relay is an excellent suggestion. Regarding a grease to exclude dirt and moisture from the switch innards just use a good high temperature grease..
 
Keoke,

I am aware of what Dielectric grease is and have used it in all connections and switches to protect against moisture and provide lubrication. A dielectric grease is not a conductor and will eliminate any switch cross flashing and spurious sparking. However, the dielectric grease will separate from contacts under pressure to expose a clean good contact (i.e. when pushing a bullet into a receiver or with the flip of a switch). This approach is not something I originated and is commonly used by many others. For my part, I have applied dielectric grease on the electrical contacts of my Healey for the last 20 years and have not experienced any issues. I stand behind my suggestion.

Ray (64BJ8P1)
 
I believe it is the same as the period switches for the Sprite/Midget? A toggle switch with a black plastic or maybe bakelite handle? It should not be too hard to find a good used if that is the case.

P.S. there is an NOS used on Ebay now, but not cheap!
 
I have applied dielectric grease on the electrical contacts of my Healey for the last 20 years and have not experienced any issues. I stand behind my suggestion

OH OK:
But since most greases are of a dielectric nature you should do just fine with a plain HI Temperature one.
 
mikephillips said:
Check too to see if the paddle will come off the old switch if rebuilding doesn't work. The main body of most Lucas switches are the same for two and three position switches other than those with a resistor built in. I've gotten new Lucas before and swapped paddles so they look the same, and have the same patina as the others.
Click to expand...

Thanks Mike - this was the best idea. The new ones have very slightly different dimensions such that swapping paddles did not work. However, I was easily able to move the guts of the new switch into the body of the old one. The appearance of the old one is preserved and it's back in working order.

thanks
steve
 
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