Replacing Ignition Switch

[Jaime&Patrick]

So you see, I seem to have broken the key off in the ignition switch on the dash, and it is buried deep inside that thing. I had wanted to replace it anyway, maybe with a push-button switch, so this is a good enough time to do that. I am reaching out to you fine folks in the off chance that this bus of ours, or coaches in general, have something about their ignitions that I should know before I go and replace it. You all know how that is often the case.

Magnolia is a 2000 Setra S217. Nothing fancy about her, all analog and questionable wiring. Any heads up on a proper replacement part to order would be welcome to!

Thanbks in advance!

[luvrbus]

Buy your self a good tractor key switch with 4 or 5 post and never replace it again don't buy a 10 dollar ignition/starter switch a good dependable switch will cost between 30 to 50 bucks

[Jaime&Patrick]

Buy your self a good tractor key switch with 4 or 5 post and never replace it again don't buy a 10 dollar ignition/starter switch a good dependable switch will cost between 30 to 50 bucks

Picked up a universal switch at O'Reilly's for about $40, let's see how that goes.

[luvrbus]

I like tractor switches lol the keys are of a different variety and don't break as easy as the brass keys 

[Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM]

Personally, I liked the Toggle Switch and the Push Button I had in my MC-9.  I never worried about losing or breaking a key off in that bus.  Life was just simpler back then.

Of course, not just anyone could start that bus.  There was one more thing you had to do to start it. 

[Jaime&Patrick]

That is ultimately my goal when we get around to renovating the cockpit. Right now, though, I just need the old girl to start! We're moving halfway across the country next week, and though she's ready and able to make the drive, I can't with no ignition   

She is still just an empty shell of skin and frame (and really nice leather driver's seat we took from a Suburban), but mechanically sound.

[RJ]

Of course, not just anyone could start that bus.  There was one more thing you had to do to start it.  Does anyone know what that one more thing was?

Gary -

If your MC-9 was originally a Greyhound, then the answer is:

Yes.

[Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM]

Gary -

If your MC-9 was originally a Greyhound, then the answer is:

Yes.

Mine was a NJT bus.  They were all set up this way.

[chessie4905]

Nothing better than the old wrap the rope around the end of the crankshaft and give it a jerk

[Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM]

Here is the kit if you want to convert your bus.   

[Jaime&Patrick]

Nothing better than the old wrap the rope around the end of the crankshaft and give it a jerk

The first thing I thought of  when I realised I couldn't start the engine anymore was an old diesel longboat we used to use at a marina I worked for, and how a good few cranks could get that monster going. 

[Coach_and_Crown_Guy]

Personally, I liked the Toggle Switch and the Push Button I had in my MC-9.  I never worried about losing or breaking a key off in that bus.  Life was just simpler back then.

Of course, not just anyone could start that bus.  There was one more thing you had to do to start it.  Does anyone know what that one more thing was?

If we're all going to be coy about giving away a very valid anti-theft device/procedure then all I can say is, Yes, I know too, like that other poster did. Different carriers obviously used other "device" positions to deter thefts but the idea was the same. An extra step required to get it to start. Works well for outsiders and uninitiated thieves, not so much for those occasional Company wash rack employees who would take one for a joy ride every once in a while. Made for nice headlines and sold some newspapers though.

I actually agree as well with the idea of not having an ignition key and switch. Much more reliable with nothing to lose or misplace preventing using the bus. I'm seriously thinking of replacing my current keyed ignition switches with something like the GMC's and early MCI's, with an additional anti-theft "device" of some sort only I know about. Keeps it all simple, reliable, and always ready to go, with no risk of breaking a key in the lock. Even though I can always rear start the bus, it's not all fully functional and not suited for long drives. Some buses' charging systems don't come on using the rear start or mechanics panel on Crowns. Only good for limping to a repair location or getting out of traffic or a dangerous situation.

[luvrbus]

On my Country Coach with the ISX Cummin I would need 3 toggles and button to replace the key switch

[windtrader]

If u afraid of getting ripped off, just put a chain on the wheel and around the door lever or bolt into the floor.

[luvrbus]

If u afraid of getting ripped off, just put a chain on the wheel and around the door lever or bolt into the floor.

US Military someone has been looking at Humvees