1950 Truck ignition switch alternates / alternatives

[pippin]

Hi guys, I have a 1950 L-122. The previous owner told me that the ignition key switch was bad, and they attempted to hot wire it at one point a couple of decades ago. In addition, he no longer has the keys to it.

I either need to get the original switch repaired & re-keyed, or just replace it.

Can someone give me the details on the specifics of the switch, like how many positions, etc.? Cole Hersee makes similar looking key switches.

Also, once I get the switch fixed or replaced, I will need some help sorting out the wires going to it.

Thanks!!!!

Marine Ignition Switches Series - Ignition Switches from Switches - Littelfuse

www.littelfuse.com

 

[pippin]

Here's a pic. The CH-M550 looks similar

 

[Greg R]

Here's a wiring diagram. I would throw in a heavy duty toggle for now. The one hot is "B" from the battery "I" goes ignition and "A" goes to the starter push button and wiper switch. A lock shop might come up with a key or a modern switch just won't have all the terminals used such as start position unless you rewired to use the start position.

 

[PHuscher]

The switch you show, CH-M550 isn't the one you want, assuming you're using the push button on the left side of the dash. The CH-M550 is spring loaded for a "start" position, then releasing to "run", and has no accessory position. I think something along the lines of a Pollak 31-122P or Standard US 11 is what you need. But I could be wrong.

 

[Dana Strong]

I think something along the lines of a Pollak 31-122P

It's neat that some people here know these details. I didn't.
Here's a link to a distributor's site giving a side view of the Pollak:

Pollak 3-Position Ignition Switch, Packaged 31-122P

www.vehiclesafetysupply.com

and another one going to the Pollak site showing the back, w/ terminal positions:

Item # 31-122, Acc - Off - On/Acc On Pollak

Browse Item # 31-122, Acc - Off - On/Acc in the Pollak catalog including Item #,Item Name,Description,Mounting Hole Pattern,Specification,Base Type,Starter/Lockout

products.pollakaftermarket.com

 

[pippin]

That top one listed has a "P" at the end. The P has the spring return.

I just ordered this one with the "no-spring-back" Thanks dudes

31-122 - 3-POSITION-IGNITION-SWITCH-ACC-OFF-ON-3-10-32-STUDS-NO-SPRING-BACK - TLP - TRUCKLIGHTPARTS.COM

31-122,Ignition Switches,POLLAK,3-POSITION IGNITION SWITCH - ACC-OFF-ON - 3 #10-32 STUDS - NO SPRING BACK

www.trucklightparts.com

 

[Greg R]

Good choice

 

[pippin]

Got the new switch. Even the original round nut threads on. It has a nice "action" to it as well. It's not an exact match as the body is fatter. I would consider it an upgrade over the factory switch. Made in the USA too

 

[rwk]

One thing I do with some of my old cars is the starter button, my original ignition switch was not working in the start position, so I removed the wires and wired to a start button mounted under dash, when car has sat for some time I will crank the engine for a few seconds at a time to build oil pressure before switching ignition on and starting, also is a theft deterrent, button is somewhat hidden.