ignition switch terminology

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Old September 4th, 2015 | 07:02 PM
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1968_Post's Avatar
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ignition switch terminology

On the ignition switch of my 1968 442 there are 2 terminals marked Key+ and Key-... could someone explain what the function of these terminals are?
Old September 5th, 2015 | 03:16 AM
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Those would be the terminals for the key-in buzzer, mandated as of '68 to remind people to take their keys out of the car.

- Eric
Old September 5th, 2015 | 05:18 AM
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Thank you sir!
Old September 5th, 2015 | 05:31 AM
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And to expand on Eric's response, the Key - terminal is connected to a white wire that is grounded when the driver's door switch is closed (door open closes the switch). The Key + terminal is connected to the pink/black wire that goes to the buzzer terminal on the horn relay. When the key is in the lock cylinder in the OFF position, the Key + and Key - terminals are connected internally in the switch, which grounds the buzzer terminal on the horn relay and produces that annoying sound.

Note that this is unique to the 1968 cars. With the locking steering column in 1969, this key buzzer switch function moved to a separate set of contacts in a housing next to the lock cylinder that close when the key is in the LOCK position.
Old September 5th, 2015 | 08:46 AM
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Appreciate the info! Thanks Joe!
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