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Wedge TR8, ignition switch problem?

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R

RoseRoyce

Freshman Member
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I have now added 1400 miles to the TR8 which I purchased a month ago, with no problems ...until today. This morning it started fine as usual, but after 2 miles or so,I stopped to pick up some milk; when I tried to start it the accessories came on but no power to the starter! The radio worked, the lights were on in the dash...but nothing from the starter.

I jiggled the key in the ignition switch and all of a sudden it kicked in, and the car started. I drove to work and didn't use the car all day. At 5PM, I got in and again nothing...and still nothing.

I notice that the ignition switch appears to be loose...there is a lot of play. Sometimes it has been hard to remove the key...I need to move the steering wheel, and push and turn...other times it comes out easily...but I always have to push and turn.

Any ideas?
 
Hi, Bernie -

These things apparently are known for ignition switch failure. Sounds likely that yours is done for. Mine may be on the outs as well. It's next on my "to do" list before heading for VTR later this month.

Let us know what you find...

Mickey
 
Bernie-

Does the key turn all the way to the start position, or is that what the the jiggling accomplishes? Difficulty removing the key? These two symptoms turned out to be a worn key rather than bad switch for my TR8. I had problems with a key copied from the original that I had lost. I bought a correct key blank and had it cut by number, tightened the switch, and it works like new.
 
The key turns all the way to the start position. I have two sets of keys which came with the car, but they are not originals. The previous owner told me that he had them cut by a local locksmith.

I've seen the key blanks in the catalogue, but how do you have them "cut by number"?

I was all dressed up, so I could'nt crawl under the dash to see about tightening the switch, but there was no obvious access. I want to check in my manuals about removing the cover around the steering column, but it was not obvious.

Thanx for the input...it's all valuable.
 
Reminds me of my MG's ignition switch failing while I was at work last year. Doesn't sound quite the same, but it turns out that the plastic inner switch stripped off (helped by the heat) as I turned the key, so it would never actually engage anything; it actually felt like the key was jamming and I couldn't turn it (because the key was at the end of its travel, and never caught the plastic switch). I had to unscrew the ignition lock (by Dremeling out sheer bolts) and hotwire it, then replace the switch later.
 
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