Bus Headlight Switch Mounting

[Rgl1100]

So I realize this may be a pretty foolish question but I just can't seem to find the answer. I need to replace my headlight switch on my bus. When I pulled the current switch out I determined it was from a Type I bug since it didn't have a tab on #57. I purchased a new switch. It looks like this:

Now, other switches I have that look like this I have been able to unscrew the metal eschuton(?) underneath the knob thereby freeing up the L shaped mounting bracket that contains the screw. However, on this new on, I cannot (even with pliers) unscrew the metal piece which makes me believe its supposed to be mounted using only the screw on the mounting bracket. This is important because,if that's true, I need to enlarge the hole in my dash so that the metal piece below the knob fits through the dash to act as a stablizing point. I don't want to do this before someone tells me this is the way this type of switch is supposed to mount. It also means the previous switch I had that looks like this was not supposed to unscrew from the mounting bracket. Thanks for the help.

[BonTonRoulet]

Well, just looking at the thing, you've got 3 components: The switch, the bracket, and the aluminum escutcheon (collar). They had to put it together somehow. Perhaps when grabbing the aluminum escutcheon firmly with pliers or vice grips you are crushing what I would imagine are the threads in the escutcheon against the shaft of the switch. I'd try wrapping the side of the aluminum escutcheon with a thick rubber band, then try to remove it with pliers or vice grips using a bit lighter grip but relying on the rubber band to help with the grip.

Or perhaps it's the third thing other than the left hand hubs on old cars and the collar inside a toilet tank around the handle that I've ever encountered with left hand threads.

[easy e]

Bus switch mounting doesn't involve the aluminum part.
Unscrew the knob.
Plug the wires in.
Press aluminum part up against the backside of the dash where the hole is.
Screw the screw in.
Screw the knob on.
_________________
aka: Evan
Spreadsheet for Bus RPM, based on gearing & tire size (Excel format)
Searchable, click-navigable 1958 Bus Parts List

[BonTonRoulet]

[Rgl1100]

Thank you. That’s what I thought

[ToolBox]

For future refrence they make this collection of paper with words and pictures that tells you how to do things to your vehicle. It's kind of useful...

Volkswagen Transporter (Type 2) Workshop Manual: 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967

[easy e]

[ToolBox]