Wiring a new ignition switch in a 1975 124

[Blueandtanspider]

I don’t have any experience wiring cars, so I’m in over my head, but I’m eager to learn.
I recently bought a Vick Auto ignition switch to replace the old one in my ‘75. I’ve gotten the old switch out and the new one in, but I’m having trouble with wiring it in. The switch came with a wiring diagram, but unfortunately my dash wire colors don’t exactly match up with Vick’s. When I attach the wires to the ignition switch in what I think is the right order, none of the instruments or lights turn on until the key is turned to the third position (start). I also hear a single thump from the engine bay which I think is the starter solenoid, but it won’t crank.

Has anyone installed one of these aftermarket ignition switches? Or any idea on what might be going wrong? or does anyone recommend any good books/websites for troubleshooting this sort of thing? I’m not really sure where to start.

Thanks,
Nolan

[baltobernie]

Don't experiment with ignition switch wiring. Some of these wires are not fused and carry a hefty amount of current. You've already done the right thing by purchasing from a reliable source. I'd make a note of your wiring colors and phone the vendor.

[MattVAS]

Nolan

I think my memory and brain are working up to speed today. As such I've marked the instructions to help.

INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Forget the wire colors as these are wrong all the time (due to previous owners or Fiat ran out of blue wire so they just used something else)
2) See Picture


For the sight impaired.
Old Switch....................................................New Switch
15 (blue/black) & INT (blue/pink)..................both on new 15 (use the doubler provided with the switch
30/I (black)..................................................30/I (black)
50 (red).......................................................50 (red)
30 (brown)..................................................30 (brown)
....................................................................INT Terminals are always hot and if use them the ignition switch will fry

Hope this helps. And I know the sight impaired couldn't read my instructions either that is what makes if funny yuck yuck yuck

[spider2081]

I sent you an email through this site:

In order to properly assist you with the ignition switch wiring a photo of the contacts on the back of your original ignition switch would greatly help. Also a list of the colors of wires you have that went to the original ignition switch.
I think there is a good chance your original switch has a terminal 16. The wire that was on this terminal needs to be addressed.

If your original Sipea ignition switch has a terminal 16 the electrical portion of the switch contains 4 separate switches. If it does not have a terminal 16 the Sipea switch has 3 internal switches. The replacement switch has only 2 internal switches so more than one wire has to be put on a single terminal.

[JustRand]

I have a 1969 124 Sport Spider that needs a new switch as well. I ordered mine from Bayless, it seems to be OK. My current issue is getting the old one out. I have got it out part way, but it just won't release. Am I doing something wrong, is there another trick I should know? I'm a little frustrated. Any/all help is appreciated. This is my first foray into vintage Fiats and I knew I was getting into something that would need tinkering, hopefully it will be worth it.

Thanks guys, hope to hear from you.

[daved]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G39ot4hKKyQ

[JustRand]

Thanks Dave, I've watched that video many times before I even ordered the part. Sadly I'm at an impasse. I did see on another forum that the steering wheel may need to be turned a bit to get it to release the steering lock mechanism. I think I'll try that tonight.

Hey I just noticed you have a '69 as well, I'd like to see some pics, and hear what you've done. I have a long road before I'll be hitting the beach.

Thanks again.

Rand

[spider2081]

I found moving the key slowly either side of the arrow there is a spot where the tool you are using to depress the keeper will go in a little bit more. Its at this point the switch assembly can be removed. Look close at the steering column lock movable bar sometimes it hangs up on the steering column. Use a small screwdriver to depress the movable bar past the metal lip on the steering column.

[JustRand]

Great, I'll watch for that as well. I appreciate it!

Rand

[JustRand]

I got it done! Turns over like a champ, but sadly the battery is shot. PO told me it was about 15 years old so a new one is in order. Thanks for all your help guys, the jiigle-push-and-pry method worked.

[spider2081]

great to hear the ignition switch now worked. Enjoy your car.