Just a "heads up" to anyone who thinks they may need a new ignition switch. They are tough to come by now and expensive. I had determined that my intermittent starting issue was due to a faulty ignition switch. Going through the Ferrari Chat archives, I found that a BMW 2002 switch, 61 31 2 682 120, was a direct replacement, and in those days, very inexpensive. I did a search and found a half dozen sites for the part, ranging in price from $275 to $340. I placed orders for the two least expensive options, only to be informed that they were not in stock and did not expect any replacements in the near future. I ended up buying on off ebay from MrFiat, for $340. I guess the BMW part is either not being made anymore, or it is a victim of current supply chain issues. In any event, be prepared to beat the bushes for one of these if you need it now.
Before buying the contact block, ensure it has Bosch Germany or SWF Germany cast in the black plastic, otherwise you are getting a Chinese made item (not as reliable). A flyback diode on the starter circuit extends the life of the contact block copper.
Yes, great price. I would buy it, but I have a stash of the Bosch / SWF contact blocks and Neiman ignition barrels for my 308 and Alfa 1750 Roundtail to last my lifetime.
Here is new Bosch one in Germany Ebay: Good price https://www.ebay.de/itm/124982984674?hash=item1d1990ffe2:g:EfYAAOSwP49hf9gh
Another ignition item to be gentle with is the ignition barrel. Turn the key until you get starter engagement, stop, and go no further. Turning it all the way to hit a stop may cause the ignition cylinder to crack. If this happens you have to replace the ignition/ cylinder barrel. Some photos… Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
Old SWF contact block disassembled. It had internal corrosion. SWF uses grease and Bosch uses copper grease. Image Unavailable, Please Login
No, cannot be repaired. Once the contact block is disassembled and damaged internally they cannot be repaired. No spare internal parts available. This one had rust inside it. Must have been in humid location. You can replace the ignition barrel in your ferrari ignition switch using similar barrels. I have some with German text, Italian text, and Roman numerals.
I just got the replacement switch yesterday and installed it today. The car starts right up now. The swap is relatively easy, but the positioning you have to get into to access the mounting bolts was an adventure for my 70 year old body!
It’s an easy thing, the outlaw will be started this way. Most of my old race cars are button start with either a relay or the big Amp start button wired direct. I almost did it to the 83 when the valet destroyed the ignition switch but found a new key tumbler at the last minute
How to change this ignition switch? I have a 1983 308 GTB QV and there are many many cables under the dash (big ones that cannot be moved away easily) and I cannot even see this ignition switch, let alone loosen those 2 screws. Is there a trick for this? Should I remove parts from the steering column or something?
I removed the steering wheel to allow me get under dash and access to the rear of the ignition switch. what is your ignition switch issue?
The starter sometimes keeps running when I let go of the key after starting the engine. I have already pulled and refurbished the starter motor but that seemed okay. So I got a new ignition switch and want to put that in too.
I think I can see it on this picture. At least one of the 2 screws.. Taking the picture was already very difficult so I hope there is some kind of trick to replace it Image Unavailable, Please Login
Push the driver seat all the way back. I put a 1 inch rubber pad over the lower door threshold. While lying on my back, I slid under the dash. Use good lighting. Your wiring diagram will help with colored wires to correct switch terminal when reinstalling. I marked the back of the switch at the top to ensure proper orientation. Silver sharpie mark at top. You may have to Tyrap some wire bundles out of the way.