Ignition Switch Install Question

[BillyJo98]

Good Afternoon,

 

Relatively new Boxster (1998 base 2.5L 5-Speed Manual LHD) owner here. I'm having a tough time installing a new ignition switch. I originally purchased part #4A0-905-849-BMY-INT from Pelican only to find out that my car must of had the updated assembly installed at some point (I know this has been a common malady for a lot of cars), as the existing part in the car is the later Audi switch (part #4B0-905-849-OEM ). I purchased the newer switch and attempted to install this weekend. Unfortunately for my back/body, the lock assembly won't accept the new switch either.

 

When comparing side-by-side, each switch is identical with exception to the orientation of the female end of the switch, which is turned in he opposite direction. So, whatever little prong is supposed to insert into this housing won't accept the new part. I gently tried turning the female end with the tip of the key (thinking that perhaps the key entered the switch anyway). But, no such luck. And, given that this is an $80+ part, I don't exactly want to tear it up.

 

A previous thread describes a similar issue to mine. However, the conclusion to the thread didn't share specifics on what part solved the issue:

 

          "Turns out, my '98 had the entire switch replaced with a newer part (mechanical AND electrical) before I bought it, and it needed the newer electrical switch! Thanks to all who replied :renntech:"

 

Based off of pulling the existing part and ordering the exact part #, I thought for sure my issues would be solved. I touched base with the Porsche experts at Pelican through their ticket system. But, they're not sure what the issue is either.

 

Has anyone else come across this issue? Again, I don't want to damage the part. But, I'm willing to try prying the assembly apart to see if I can change the orientation. My other alternative is to buy the other switches offered on Pelican (Febi #4B0-905-849-M36, Meyle 4B0-905-849-M36 and O.E.M. 4B0-905-849-M56. But, I'd like to avoid this if possible (I don't think Pelican's taking any of these parts back, as they'd be opened).

                           

Any help is appreciated. 

 

P.S. I'm replacing the switch in hopes that it solves issues that I'm having with the Tach, Speedo and Horn not functioning.

 

Edited April 29, 2019 by BillyJo98

[JFP in PA]

37 minutes ago, BillyJo98 said:

Good Afternoon,

 

Relatively new Boxster (1998 base 2.5L 5-Speed Manual RHD) owner here. I'm having a tough time installing a new ignition switch. I originally purchased part #4A0-905-849-BMY-INT from Pelican only to find out that my car must of had the updated assembly installed at some point (I know this has been a common malady for a lot of cars), as the existing part in the car is the later Audi switch (part #4B0-905-849-OEM ). I purchased the newer switch and attempted to install this weekend. Unfortunately for my back/body, the lock assembly won't accept the new switch either.

 

When comparing side-by-side, each switch is identical with exception to the orientation of the female end of the switch, which is turned in he opposite direction. So, whatever little prong is supposed to insert into this housing won't accept the new part. I gently tried turning the female end with the tip of the key (thinking that perhaps the key entered the switch anyway). But, no such luck. And, given that this is an $80+ part, I don't exactly want to tear it up.

 

A previous thread describes a similar issue to mine. However, the conclusion to the thread didn't share specifics on what part solved the issue:

 

          "Turns out, my '98 had the entire switch replaced with a newer part (mechanical AND electrical) before I bought it, and it needed the newer electrical switch! Thanks to all who replied :renntech:"

 

Based off of pulling the existing part and ordering the exact part #, I thought for sure my issues would be solved. I touched base with the Porsche experts at Pelican through their ticket system. But, they're not sure what the issue is either.

 

Has anyone else come across this issue? Again, I don't want to damage the part. But, I'm willing to try prying the assembly apart to see if I can change the orientation. My other alternative is to buy the other switches offered on Pelican (Febi #4B0-905-849-M36, Meyle 4B0-905-849-M36 and O.E.M. 4B0-905-849-M56. But, I'd like to avoid this if possible (I don't think Pelican's taking any of these parts back, as they'd be opened).

                           

Any help is appreciated. 

 

P.S. I'm replacing the switch in hopes that it solves issues that I'm having with the Tach, Speedo and Horn not functioning.

 

 

Welcome to RennTech

 

Have you tried inserting a small flat screwdriver into the new switch and turning it to the position that matches the old one?  If that does not work, exchange it for a different switch.  And a second suggestion is to stop buy parts from Pelican and start buying them from board sponsor Sunset Porsche, where you will always get the real factory parts, unlike Pelican.

[BillyJo98]

1 hour ago, JFP in PA said:

 

Welcome to RennTech

 

Have you tried inserting a small flat screwdriver into the new switch and turning it to the position that matches the old one?  If that does not work, exchange it for a different switch.  And a second suggestion is to stop buy parts from Pelican and start buying them from board sponsor Sunset Porsche, where you will always get the real factory parts, unlike Pelican.

Hey JFP,

 

Thanks for the quick response. I will give that a shot (delicately) when I get home. I'll follow up manana and let y'all know if that works.