Replacing the ignition switch '70 Deluxe Bay

[1970_BRICK]

I'm new to this whole forum thing so I hope I don't get bagged on to hard.

I have a 1970 Deluxe Bay All Stock, not sure if all the parts are original. I am 90% sure that I need to replace the ignition switch (some testing pending). Since I cannot lift the housing & turn it to remove the switch does anybody know the simplest way to replace?

Also, I have a switch ordered from WCM for this vehicle but packaging says its for a 68-70 sedan. Were the ignition switches the same in beetles?

[TomWesty]

Look in the FAQ above and go to Ratwells site. There is a link there with instructions. Also, look at the pictures in the procedure by stepponmeboom in the FAQ thread. Does the switch on your bus have push on terminals on the back of it or are there wires coming off of it? I have done the '71 but not the '70 and I think they are different.

[old DKP driver]

What part are you replacing,Electrical portion or key tumbler.
after you read what TomWesty suggested go to my gallery pics and you will see you DO NOT need to remove the housing from your bus to do the 70 type 2.
But you must disconnect the Battery 1st. then pull the (4) phillip screws under the housing.
And slide the column back a little towards you [sitting in the seat]
then get back under the column with a light and look for the small pin
and pull it out with needle nose pliers(if it is still there after all these years)

Then put some sort of wire [coat hanger] in the hole and push while turning the ignition key.

The electrical part is even easier to do as explained in the thread you have already read.
_________________
V.W.owner since 1967

[TomWesty]

DKP is right, you can do this without pulling the column. It is a bit of a pain laying on the floor of the bus looking up, but can be done after removing the screws like he said. You can also cock the housing a bit to the side as long as you don't put too much of a strain on the wires when you do it. If replacing the switch side, be very careful not to lose that little grub screw!

[Bookwus]

Hiya 1970,

While dkp is technically correct, let me tell you that it is a lot easier to remove the entire ignition housing. This will also allow you to service the three component assemblies (keyswitch, wheel lock, and electrical switch) inside the ignition housing while you have it out.

More than likely the component which has failed is the electrical switch. These can be picked up at most any VW oriented FLAPS. Sorry, I do not know if this is the same switch as used in a Bug.

If you look at dkp's picture, the key to this process is the hole he has circled in red. Pushing a coat hanger wire into that hole you will feel a little give. That's the band spring that holds the keyswitch in place. Using a dental pick in the keyway, pull gently while keeping the band spring depressed with the coat hanger. It takes some "feel" but the keyswitch will come out. It has to be removed before you can take out the ignition housing.

I have spare parts for the 887A housing (which is unique to the 70), and complete 887A assemblies (cleaned and ready for use) should you need them.
_________________
Mike

1970 AS Bug
1970 Bus - The Ruptured Duck

Have an AutoStick? Check out www.auto-stick.com

[1970_BRICK]

The key tumbler seems to be fine, I'm pretty sure it's the electrical part. Although, it's been rewired by several different shops. The last was Tumazzi in Turlock, Ca. He was kind enough to use the proper color coded wires.

Thank you everyone for helping the "new guy".