250SX Key Switch Preventative Maintenance

[psujeepguy]

Hey All. Picked up a really nice 1985 250SX a couple weeks ago and I love it. It's in great shape; all original except the tires. I'm trying to avoid issues with the key switch as I know these do tend to occur. Mine is showing some signs - sometimes neutral light and starter don't engage and it takes a little wiggle of the key to activate them. Any recommendations for some PM on these key switches? Contact cleaner or WD40 in the key slot? Other tricks of the trade? Should I just work on replacing now with 250es retrofit?

[shortline10]

I remove the switch , take it apart and clean the contacts .
It’s not hard just mark it before pulling it apart so it’s clocked back in the same position when reinstalling it .
Get some dielectric grease to keep the contacts from getting oxidized again .

[350for350]

If you do decide to replace the switch with one for a 250ES, it's super simple and pretty self explanatory once you start comparing the wires.

[psujeepguy]

If you do decide to replace the switch with one for a 250ES, it's super simple and pretty self explanatory once you start comparing the wires.

Found a guy on ebay selling them that are already converted. Read some old posts about some here doing that as well. Not sure if it's the same person or not.

[Dirtcrasher]

Found a guy on ebay selling them that are already converted. Read some old posts about some here doing that as well. Not sure if it's the same person or not.

But, is he converting a Chinese switch or an OEM??

[psujeepguy]

But, is he converting a Chinese switch or an OEM??

His ad states that the ignition is made by Honda. I'd post a link but... d*mn these network firewalls at work! haha

[shortline10]

It’s probably p2sfixer that’s selling those switches , theirs a thread on this site explaining how he was making them .