Simple Ignition switch question

[DebbiQ]

The starter in our '92 Q drags on the flywheel every once in a while. It doesn't kick out as soon as it should. This seemed to begin with the new teenage drivers, and all the cr*p on their key rings (a practice we have stopped). Is it safe to spray some WD 40 or maybe contact cleaner in the key slot to see if it improves the situation?

TIA

[Skibane]

As with most electrical switches, problems with ignition switches usually manifest themselves as a failure to MAKE an electrical connection, rather than a failure to BREAK the connection. Thus, if your ignition switch was at fault, it would sometimes fail to spin the starter - it wouldn't sometimes fail to disengage the starter.

My guess is that the starter's failure to disengage is most likely due to a mechanical problem with the starter itself - not the ignition switch.

[DebbiQ]

Thanks for the reply. It feels like the spring may not be pulling the switch fully off of the start position. My understanding is that there is some kind of photo eye that "looks" thru the hole in the key, and I do not want to create a new, larger problem. So can anyone tell me if it is safe to spray some cleaner or lube in there. Compressed air? Bueller, anyone?

Thx

[Q451990]

I don't think you'll create a problem lubricating it. I really don't like using WD-40 for anything except as a release agent for rusted parts - but my locksmith actually said that they prefer it for wafer locks (like the Q). I would prefer graphite lock spray (like lock-eze) but I think it's safe to try either one. As far as a photo-eye, I've never heard that before. I think there may be something that mechanically inserts itself through the hole to hold the key in, but I don't know for sure.

Heath

[1990Q45'r]

The starter selenoid relay contacts do burn after so long and can stick. I would replace it!