Converting model a starter switch to pushbutton

M

miff

Senior Member
Am looking for info on a kit or how to change the starter over to a push button ( or key switch) on a model a speeder I am building . The system is changed over to 12 v , excluding starter. Gas tank has been removed and installed in the back . I have built a new dash so there's plenty of room . Any suggestions would be helpful . Thanks Miff
 
I would start by looking for a 12 volt starter relay where the small terminal needs a ground to engage the relay. Then run battery power to the correct large relay terminal, and run another starter cable from the other large relay terminal to the starter switch. You can bend the heavy copper contact down, so the original starter switch is always engaged. Now you will only need to run a small wire (14 or 16 gauge is fine) from the small relay stud up to the push button. You then ground the other push button terminal.
 
This setup was done long before I got it, perfect for my Smiths compresser, can start it from both sides--solenoid with a pushbutton
 

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Have you considered a Model B cable switch? Uses a choke style cable to operate...super simple to install and you can put the cable almost anywhere.
 
I started by removing the original starter switch. There's a brass lug about 3/4" in diameter, I drilled a hole in the center and tapped it 5/16 X 18. Take your time drilling and make sure the bit is sharp or you might melt the solder. The solenoid I used was just a common ford solenoid with a grounded base, they cost about $12.00. You can mount the solenoid anywhere you want. I mounted the solenoid on the starter and used the 4 existing holes.
carry on nick c
 
The first one I did, I merely soldered a bolt the the lug on the starter, being careful to not use too much heat. That was 55 years ago and it is still in use. My speedster has a 33-34 starter, they used a remote switch so are already converted.
 
Step 1: Disconnect the battery

Step 2: Remove the foot plunger

Step 3: Take the original switch apart, reassemble it with the copper strip upside down (you may have to bend it a little so the strip makes constant contact) and re-install the assembly.

Step 3: Install a Ford solenoid and wire it as per this diagram:

56317d1340581640-ford-4-terminal-solenoid-wiring.jpg


Step 4: Drive
 
gwhite said:
Have you considered a Model B cable switch? Uses a choke style cable to operate...super simple to install and you can put the cable almost anywhere.
Click to expand...
Remember the Model B switch attaches to the starter with three screws and the Model A with four.

Charlie Stephens
 
Does anyone have a NAPA or other part number for a 6 Volt solenoid such as Muttley pictured. Probably would not have the "I" terminal, I think.

I'd like to do this and also put in a battery disconnect, since my alternator appears to have a leaky diode.
 
If you have a tractor supply store (TSC) they have them, just a 6 volt starter solenoid is all you need.
 
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