TR2/3/3A Early Lucas Ignition Switch

[jruddsr]

I have the original Lucas ignition switch from my 1956 Tr3. It’s model s45 312.1 Date code 4/56. I want to remove the barrel, I have the key. All my research call for depressing a release button with the key in the “on” position. This is not working for me.
in the full on position all I see in the access port is a black metal ring, no button. I’ve tried to press this ring inward but it doesn't’ release the barrel. Can anyone help?
Thanks, John

 

[Graham H]

Just push the key in don't turn it and the release button should be visable.

Graham

 

[jruddsr]

Thank you for your suggestion Graham. No matter what I did, I could not get the release button visible. I finally unsoldered the nut on the back, removed it and the barrel came out. I was concerned there would be a spring loaded explosion but there wasn’t. John

 

[DrEntropy]

Appears the detent button has been "permanently" depressed! Potmetal, corrosion likely has crudded up the shaft. Try the "Weasel Pi$$" concoction (50/50 mix of ATF and acetone), shake and wick it twixt shaft and barrel, and down around the brass detent. Soak it for quite a while with reapplications. And some down between barrel and "socket."

 

[Graham H]

I had a similar problem and eventually got it apart with a little force. My problem was a previous owner had broken the bakelite and reassembled it with small bolts instead of rivets and 180 degrees out so the release pin was always out of the aperture. When doing a restoration you have to allow for the unexpected and be prepared for everything to have been messed about with.

Graham