‘72 ignition problem Options

[Mpiercewa]

My 1972 914 is very hard to start. I really have to wiggle the key to get it to turn over but sometimes it won’t at all. Will replacing the ignition switch likely fix this problem? I appreciate any guidance.

[Ishley]

Yes. It’s most likely the switch. Unfortunately the current batch of products on the market are not great. I have changed mine a couple times but my last one has lasted a few years now. Quality is the issue with these parts. I’ve ordered from several sources and they are all the same. You could try Porsche direct… some say it’s a better part.

[chmillman]

Yes, sounds definitely like the ignition switch, replace it now before it’s too late and you get stranded somewhere. It’s not too hard, Pelican Parts has an excellent tutorial to guide you through it.

https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/9...tion_switch.htm

Seeing as how people have reported the repro switches as being unreliable, maybe buy two to have an extra on hand. Not sure the Porsche dealer part is any better than the one from other suppliers, just more expensive.

While you’re in there with the steering wheel off, check the horn contacts/wire for possible repair/replacement too…

And, as I learned recently here that there are indeed 25 amps that go through the ignition switch contacts to the solenoid, I am in the process of putting in an extra relay to unload them. There are a couple of threads on that here, will post my results when done.