Inhibitor Swith Issue?

[Matt]

While faffing about with the electrics, I have also tried to fix a starting problem. The symptoms are that the car (its an auto - BW 35)) won't start sometimes in Park, sometimes in Neutral and sometimes in both. Ignition comes on normally but the solenoid appears dead when the key is turned to the start position. I've fitted a new ign switch recently, and the problem pre-dates the new switch. Moving the gear lever forwards and backwards usually clears the problem. I've checked the wiring to and from the inhibitor switch; it has power to it, and continuity to the solenoid. I've taken off the foot well plate, cleaned the switch terminals and given the switch terminals a clean with switch cleaner followed by wd40 while leaving it in place. This seemed to clear the problem for a day but it has returned. My deduction is that the inhibitor switch is sticking; is this a valid deduction, and if so which supplier of inhibitor switches would the panel suggest - as it's some 40 years old its probably a bit tired?
I'm really looking forwards to an hour or so with my head in the passenger footwell.......all input gratefully received!

[Staggard]

I think your diagnosis is correct, sticking or contacts inside the switch. I cant suggest a supplier but I would suspect that the manufacture would be the same anyway. Graham

[Tdm]

I am on my 3rd Inhibitor switch and each replacement came from Paddocks, but they did tell me last time that they were then out of stock and didn't know if they would be able to get any more. Worth giving them a ring.

[Matt]

Thanks guys I'll be on the blower tomorrow

[Staggard]

I am on my 3rd Inhibitor switch and each replacement came from Paddocks, but they did tell me last time that they were then out of stock and didn't know if they would be able to get any more. Worth giving them a ring.

I thought you had a 65 terry totally different switch.

[DJT]

I got one from David Manners Group. Maybe worth a try if the usual suspects don't have them.

[marshman]

Seem to recall that Jaguar / Land Rover fitted the same switch under a different part number and usually cheaper than the one listed for the Stag. The part no.s I have scribbled down are:

LU-34531 and PRC5642 - I am sure that's what I used when I replaced mine a couple of years ago - might be wrong - can anyone else confirm?

Replacement is quite straight forward on the BW35 - just access it through the inspection panel on the passenger side of the transmission tunnel ( in the passenger foot well) Follow the instructions in the ROM - just make sure you get the reverse light wires and the starter wires the correct way round - easy to spot as the reverse lights will come on in park and neutral and the car will only start in reverse!!!

Roger

[milothedog]

While faffing about with the electrics, I have also tried to fix a starting problem. The symptoms are that the car (its an auto - BW 35)) won't start sometimes in Park, sometimes in Neutral and sometimes in both. Ignition comes on normally but the solenoid appears dead when the key is turned to the start position. I've fitted a new ign switch recently, and the problem pre-dates the new switch. Moving the gear lever forwards and backwards usually clears the problem. I've checked the wiring to and from the inhibitor switch; it has power to it, and continuity to the solenoid. I've taken off the foot well plate, cleaned the switch terminals and given the switch terminals a clean with switch cleaner followed by wd40 while leaving it in place. This seemed to clear the problem for a day but it has returned. My deduction is that the inhibitor switch is sticking; is this a valid deduction, and if so which supplier of inhibitor switches would the panel suggest - as it's some 40 years old its probably a bit tired?
I'm really looking forwards to an hour or so with my head in the passenger footwell.......all input gratefully received!

Try re adjusting the switch first, it could just be a little wear on the plunger rod. The other thing to check is the selector rod adjustment.

When it happens, try just moving the selector a little in either direction whilst holding the key in the start position (don't move the selector to its next position) if it starts it just needs re adjusting on the rod or possibly the switch.

Ian

[Tdm]

I thought you had a 65 terry totally different switch.

Your quite correct Graham - missed the bit in the 1st post where he mentioned it being a 35 model Auto.
However as Paddocks did used to stock the 65 one, they might also have a 35.

[Matt]

Thanks folk - Roger I'd ordered one before I saw your post -
Ian - tried wiggling it and it made no difference; it used to work most of the time in N, rarely in P but cycling the box (moving the lever through the full range of movement) tended to fix it and make one position work. I'll sling in the new switch and report back......