8 replies to this topic

[dmq]

I have a '91 build that I'm finally finishing up. The key gets stuck in the ignition occasionally when trying to start it. I just drilled out the spring to disable the wheel lock and was hoping that it might cure the sticking problem, but it didn't.

I'm on a pretty tight budget and really don't want to spend money on a new switch. Was wondering if i could just bypass it, install a push button start and use the kill switch to turn it on and off (I installed the advanced autosports kill switch using dave wheeler's method). I realize its not exactly legal, but have seen them on cars at the local track where i'll be racing.

I'd appreciate any advice, descriptions, diagrams, or opinions on if I should even do it.

thanks
dave

[Tom Hampton]

It wouldn't be a good idea to use the kill switch as a regular off switch when current is flowing. It well cause premature failure of the switch. When the switch fails it could stick in the ON position.

It would be better to bypass the key completely, with an ignition switch and a starter button. This will use the components that are designed to shutoff the car without failing.

[dmq]

Ok Thanks. So something like this... switch

[Tom Hampton]

Yup. You can also but the switches by themselves from pegasus with guard covers, or whatever. But, the longacre is a one stop solution.

[davew]

I would not recomend using the aftermarket switches.

First, it would not be legal. No where in the GCR does it say you may replace the ignition switch with toggle switches.

Second, with the amount of current required to run the electronics in a street based car, those switches won't last very long before they start causing intermitant contact problems.

Third, you will spend a fair amount of time wireing in your switches, that will be time consuming and problematic to reverse.

Forth, you can get a used ignition switch from any of the used parts venders who frequent this site for a small amount of money

Dave

[dstevens]

I don't see the rationale for not allowing switches and start buttons. It is a race car after all, but whatever, those are the rules. In terms of current draw it's easy to get switches and push buttons able to handle a current load in a Miata. It's only an 70-80 amp alternator. Cranking over a 13:1 383 stoker in a modified takes a lot more current than the little 4 banger.

But if you do switches you'll likely get protested and lose. You should be able to get a cylinder used for cheap. Likely less cost (and work) than you getting a switch panel and wiring it.

[dmq]

Ok thanks. I really just want to do what is cheapest. So if I can find a good used one for cheap I'd gladly do that. What vendors on here sell used parts?
I do see those push buttons on lots of spec miatas. anyone know of someone who was protested for one?

[dstevens]

East Street (Jim Drago) and Planet Miata (Mark Cefalo) among others sell salvage parts. JC Whitney has them new for about 100 bucks. Do you have a Mazdaspeed account yet? I didn't see them listed but the section was awaiting a tech revision.

Are you sure those are SMs and not another class? Once you start passing people they'll mind and throw paper.

If you are going to race SM, the cheapest way isn't always the legal way.

[dmq]

Found a cheap used one. Thanks for everyone's input. Doing some lapping this weekend and then if I can pass tech, my first race next weekend. I'll probably have a couple more dumb questions as I finish this thing up over the next week.