Just replaced the ignition cylinder and ACDelco ignition switch. Everything works as it should on ACC and Ign but when I turn the key it only tries to start once every 3 or 4 turns. Sometimes take out the key and put it back in and it starts. Faulty switch or something with the connection? NSS is connected good. Thanks.​​​​​​

 

The first question is, was it working before?

 

Unless it was an NOS Delco-Remy switch, or reputable manufacturer new old replacement stock aftermarket switch, I'd trust it about as far as I could throw it.

Take the key cylinder and switch back out, and use self-powered test light to check continuity on all the terminals on the new switch as you move the switch thru all positions. My guess is you're going to find some interruption in the start contacts.

Also check the wiring and plug to ensure no terminals or wires are loose in it and interrupting the circuit. Spray some contact cleaner in there and use a points file if needed to clean all the terminals.

 

The original cylinder and ignition switch was very loose and sloppy. There was a lot of play and never mounted right to the dash with the bezel. It would twist the wires if you put too much pressure. Didn't have a problem with the ignition before other than the slop and mounting issue.

 

Yeah, no issues with the ignition other than it was very old and worn out. There was a lot of slop between the cylinder and switch. I put the new cylinder inside the original switch and there was a slop still. Didn't have it with the new ACDelco. New one feels really good and works fine just having issues with when turning to on

 

I will do that once I get a chance. I know the contacts are good because I had my radio out and was able to reach in and get everything changed out easily. My guess is it is something with the switch like you said but I wanted to ask here in case it is could be something else.

 

I looked at it some more and it does lose connection once turned to ON. I wiggle it around in on position and it will crank at certain points.

 

See if there's a hole in the switch body you can spray some contact cleaner into. Could be dirty contacts. But I'd be on lookout for an NOS or NORS switch.

GM OE part #-
Grp 2.188, p/n 1116694, switch, 1968 all.

It's a one year only but works on any 1968 Oldsmobile.

What brand is your new switch?

 

I had a problem with the switch on my '68. Like yours, mine was a little sloppy so I bought a new one from my local Napa & it worked just fine then one day I started the car to take it out for some gear banging & had it idling in the driveway & it just quit running. I went to restart it & nothing, completely dead, no clicks, no dimming of the lights. After cycling the switch a couple of times it started right up & has been fine ever since. I did notice back when I installed it there seemed to be allot of contact grease inside the housing it so I'm assuming that was the problem??. Like I said it's been fine ever since, I put it in 8yrs ago!. I did go out & buy a Delco switch for it. When I get the ambition to change out my dash pad I plan to replace it.

 

You might consider checking for damaged wires. If this has been going on for awhile, its quite possible that the wires near the switch connector have been damaged and may result in the intermittent issue you have.

 

I am going to send this one back and look for the NOS switch. I got an ACDelco D1415B.

 

I plugged in my original switch and the issue went away. The problem is my original switch is missing the sping and plunger for the cylinder release so when you turn the key to ACC it pull out the whole cylinder. I need to just find an original replacement to avoid issues down the line. I don't want to have to remove it again once I put everything back together. Thanks for the reply. Sounds like a similar issue.

 

Johnny, that was a concern so I looked at everything well before getting the new switch in and there is no damage to the wires or switch. When I put the original switch back in there the car starts with no issue everytime. I ended up pulling out the defective switch and will look for a nos replacement. Thanks.

 

Hope they'll take it back. Most places have a no return policy on electrical stuff whether it was installed or not.

 

Amazon will take back anything. Thats why I order parts from them. Already sent it back and got a refund. Ordered a NOS switch from ebay for 35$.

 

Yeahbuddy, I saw a few NOS switches on ebay this morning.

 

Thanks! I found one for $35. Appreciate everyones help as usual.