71 Defroster switch trash... not so fast (rebuild it)

[JSM]

Maybe this has been posted before, not sure so I thought I would share.

I recently picked up a second console with a defroster switch and choke plate that I needed for $75.  I figured a spare console would be good anyway.  When I got home I realized the switch was frozen.  I put some lube in it, freed it up and cleaned it with electrical spray. Tested for continuity and nada.  I recently rebuilt my headlight switch and wondered maybe this was similar.  Sure enough it was.

With a small screw driver, gently pry each side out and slowly lift it out.  Be very careful not to lose the small plastic tip and spring. I did!  I had to rob one from an extra defroster switch from my old 73 parts. You have to gently bend the side metal tab holding the metal rocker in place to get it out.  Just bend one of the two sides.

Clean it up and assemble. Gently squeeze the metal side back in to hold the rocker in place. When putting it back together, push it together flat and it snaps right into the housing.  I tried at an angle first and it bound up. Now is a good time to check your bulb and clean it up as well.

Before:

Apart and cleaned up:

 

Together (You can see the black plastic tip pushing against the rocker. Don't lose it.):

Working:

[sweatybetty]

i have found that when taking something like that apart, if you put it in a large, clear zip lock bag while doing so, the flying parts dont go very far.

[JSM]

Yeah I know better.  I was careful the entire time, saw it there, was cleaning it with electrical spray and then like an idiot, I took it and shook it hard while outside on my driveway covered in acorns and leaves and went, "oh no".  Looked back and went, rats!  I knew I would never find it.  Thank goodness for spares!

[siteunseen]

Looks like the "push down part" off an ink pen.