Need Help Installing Pop Out Switch in Original Dash-

T

THETONY

Member
Hi-
I just got an original re-built pop out switch for my 31 Ford Coupe.I then tried to install it and it wouldn't fit the repro dash panel I had.So,I got a great original 31 Dash panel and am still having a problem getting it to fit! Is there a trick to it? after I get the pop out to fit then I can re-insall the speedo and amp gauge and be done.
Later I plan on having the dash panel plated during the winter months but wish to be able to drive the car now that it is summer.
Also,2 and a half turns into the distributor and then I bolted it to the block and set the points and put the car in time and it runs.I just need to fit the pop out in the original panel? Thought it would be easy,but it is NOT!
Please help with hints or stop by!
Thanks-
Tony
 
Not sure what is not fitting. If it is the original with the large armored cable it is a pain to deal with. Are the mounting screws not aligned? How about a picture or two.
 
It is an original pop out switch re-built and I am using an origianl dash panel! brass with the letter "B" stamped on the back.
The pop out is tight going into the dash panel opening? Can't get the screws to fit or the pop out to hold in the dash panel?
Should I use a drimmel on it and open it up to make it fit?
I do not wish to ruin the dash panel or the pop out.
Thanks-
I will take a picture of the pop out switch.Is this normal?
HELP!
The old pop out switch was from a 30 and fit fine,came right out but was bad,now I have a 31 and am using the 31 dash panel it doesn't fit to add to my troubles.
Tony
 
Since you are using an original popout and original dash, it sounds like the pot metal the popout is made from has swollen. I would think that a little enlargement of the dash would not be to horrible as it is not seen and if only a little is removed another popout would still fit.
 
The pot metal P-O hsg may have swelled with age.Originat W-S wiper hsgs will do the same thing & prevent the wiper paddle from sealing properly or will bind.File the outer edge of the hsg to fit,then fit to dash panel,then feed thru terminal box & screw dist onto cable,then install dist on cyl head.I never use the cable hold-down clamp as it is a p-i-a when it comes to removing dist,and the loosened head nut can cause coolant to leak into cyl.
 
I put the cable through the box already and hooked up the distributor and had the car running.Then when I went back into the car.The pop out wouldn't fit the dash panel?
A friend has suggested I use a drimmel tool on the dash panel to make the pop out switch fit.
Atleast it works as the car does start now and didn't before.
Don't know anybody in New Jersey that could help me????
Am alone and a disabled vet.
Thanks-
 
Keep in mind that the order of installing is as follows.
Remove distributor.
Install popout in dash.
Install distributor on end cable.
Install distributor back in engine.
 
Coupster,
I had a similar problem when I installed my original pop-out switch which replaced a modern switch. I found that the por material on my switch had swelled. I carefully filed the pot material on the switch so it would fit into my oroginal dash. I was finally successful an the switch is mounted and working. I did not modify the dash paneel. I am in NJ.
Supergnat
 
heres a photo of an original pop out with a brass dash
the body of the pop out should fit snugly in the cup
you must first put the two screws in where they will fit the elongated slot
other wise they are difficult to insert
then put the easy screw in the final hole
if the body dosnt fit the cup,you have to lightly file the body of the pop out until it fits in the cup
tom
 

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tony
I just went and looked for any other reason the switch should be sticking
does the pop out part slip through the dash or is it hanging up in the cup?
is the bezel original or replacement?
the pop out portion is covered in a thin nickel plated brass sleeve
it must have clearance to pop in and out
an original dash,which you have ,has the clearance already built in
maybe the bezel hole is too small?
try removing the bezel and inserting the switch
if you cant post here, send me some emails with photos
this should be an easy fix
tom
 

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Firstly as you discovered Repo Dashs will not fit a pop out -Without heaps of work - Frustrating really but there it is

I have installed several pop outs. All have required a little filing to make fit nicely. Given the rarity of decent original dashs I have alway just gently filed down the exterior of the switch. The repo bezel is a little to tight to fit some pop outs and a little filing (this time on the bezel) is sometimes required there as well

Currently I am not running a pop out . The last one I brought despite being restored by an expert died on me on a recent trip to an Art Deco Festival -I had to by pass the ignition for the 3days I was away
 
The B on the dash indicates it was made from brass. You will need to verify the length is correct for your car. They differ for different years.
 
I have a 31 pop out switch that was rebuilt by Jack Crabtree in S.D.
I now am using the original 31 dash not a reproduction.I just noticed on the original dash it has 2 slotted holes to lock in the screws from the pop out switch and not one like the reproduction panel.
I hooked it up and the car ran and now am having a gas problem which is being taken cared of,as I sent the carb back,it was brand new.
After I get by this pop out switch problem and a new carb the car should run fine,When it ran is was a super running car.I got the car in 1979 and restored it and won a first junior and senior at Hershey wiht it and it only has 300 miles on it.I got it from California and the body was super cherry! You don't find them like that any longer.Warren Paul rebuilt the motor and trans.
I have all the original tools with the car as well and it is a trunk as it is a 31 standard coupe.
NO cowl lights etc,but has 2 tail lights,which are great to have.
I wish I could get help if possible from one of you great Model A People-
Thanks-
Tony
Anybody live in NJ? I live in Central New Jersey!
Call Tony at: 1-908-755-8023 days or evenings.
I was going to file the inside of the dash but now reading I should file down the pop out? HELP!
 
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