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T-Series Key switch question

wkilleffer

Jedi Knight
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Hello everyone,

About two years ago, I had to fit a new key switch to my MGB. Not sure which parts company sold it to me.

For the most part, it seemed to work fine, just displaying a reluctance to engage the starter on very cold days. The real trouble started yesterday when putting the key in became difficult, as did pulling it out. Then, when I was trying to go to my work lunch break, the key wouldn't go in except under force, and when I pulled it out, the lock cylinder came with it.

Thanks to one of the plant workers, I was able to lubricate the cylinder (and my clothes) with graphite, and got it all back together at the expense of a lunch break. What seemed to be causing the problem with key insertion was a ball bearing right at the key opening. I removed it, and now the key goes in smoothly and the lock turns with reasonable effort.

My question is, do I need a new key switch? This one works, but those events make me wonder about it. These things aren't cheap, and the money could be used for several things, like saving for a new top. So, what would you do under the circumstances?

Thank you,
 
I would replace the cylinder if that part is available if not the whole switch, but then thats me. Maybe your mod will work for years.
 
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