Ignition switch replacement tip

[zodman]

Posting this here for a future reference....

 

I recently had to replace my ignition switch (2001 boxster s), all of the data online shows the steps involved with working in a cramped position with one's head under the dash trying to get a tiny flat-tip screwdriver into position.

 

That really brought out my claustrophobic demons for a dusting when I was trying to maneuver into position, even though I managed to achieve a really good back stretch. Yet I couldn't get the screws loose that were holding the switch in place. 

 

My ultimate solution: Removing the headlight switch assembly and the single screw supporting the heating duct against the backwall. It seems like more work, but it is really easy to do and it makes loosening the two screws holding the ignition switch in place a breeze to loosen from a more comfortable upright position.

 

Hope someone benefits from this tip.

[BobieMac]

Thank you for this! I am 6' 3" and was having fits under there. I removed the driver's seat and it still wasn't enough. The screws are in there tight and I had no good approach angle on them...not to mention what I was doing do my neck. I'm going to give this a try tomorrow.

Edited February 17, 2019 by BobieMac

[Richard Hamilton]

Deleted

Edited February 17, 2019 by Richard Hamilton

[BobieMac]

On 8/13/2015 at 6:28 AM, zodman said:

Posting this here for a future reference....

 

I recently had to replace my ignition switch (2001 boxster s), all of the data online shows the steps involved with working in a cramped position with one's head under the dash trying to get a tiny flat-tip screwdriver into position.

 

That really brought out my claustrophobic demons for a dusting when I was trying to maneuver into position, even though I managed to achieve a really good back stretch. Yet I couldn't get the screws loose that were holding the switch in place. 

 

My ultimate solution: Removing the headlight switch assembly and the single screw supporting the heating duct against the backwall. It seems like more work, but it is really easy to do and it makes loosening the two screws holding the ignition switch in place a breeze to loosen from a more comfortable upright position.

 

Hope someone benefits from this tip.

 

You really saved me a lot of time and banged---up hands with this one. I'm a tall guy with large hands, and I wouldn't have been able to get my switch out without this approach, the set screws were glued in tight.

 

Many thanks, again.

 

Edited February 20, 2019 by BobieMac