Need Convertible Switch

[bigfincad]

I need the switch for a 72 Centurion Convertible. The one on the dash to make it top go up or down.....Thanks, Rich

[73 Centurion]

These switches are surprisingly fragile. You can find them on eBay or there are some convertible parts suppliers that occasionally have them. The switch is specific to 71-73 Buicks so the switch from another brand will not work.

However you can fix these switches. I recommend you find and install a replacement. Then attempt to repair your original switch. If you can fix it you've got a spare. If not you have not left yourself stranded.

To replace the switch you need to remove the bezel from the left side of the dash. The first step is to disconnect the battery. Then reach up under the dash until you find the headlight switch. There is a button on the side of the switch. Pull out the knob while pressing this button and it will come completely out. You can now unscrew the decorative chrome nut that was behind the headlight knob. Now you can pull the dash bezel loose. Be gentle and wiggle it loose. There will be a fiber optic ribbon that attaches below the windsheild wiper switch. You do not have to disconnect this, just support the bezel so this fiber optic cable is not damaged. If you didn't disconnect the battery now is the time to put the headlight knob back in place to turn off your headlights.

Remove the 3 screws that hold the switch in place and pull the switch and it's wires towards you. Carefully disconnect the wire connector on the back and secure the wires so they don't slip back through the hole. An elastic band works nicely. Connect your replacement switch and reassemble everything.

Take your broken switch somewhere you have lots of light and some small tools. Carefully disassemble the switch. I can't remember if it's held together with metal tabs or barbed plastic pins. It should be evident when you look at it. Inside you'll find the copper connections that make the switch work. The most common reason for failure is one of the copper connections getting bent to the point the switch does not close. You can bend the copper contacts so they make solid contact.

It's very easy to put too much pressure on the switch when operating it. This is what bends the contacts to the point they stop working. I find it's best to brace your hand against the dash so you don't inadvertantly lean on the switch too hard.

Beware that the defroster switch looks exactly the same but does not operate the same. It is possible to find a toggle switch that looks very similar to our switches. You want a momentary switch that is single throw double pole, center off. (I think that's the right terminology). I had one for a long time and they are more robust than the Buick version. But they are hard to secure properly and don't have a chrome band on the toggle.

My switch is starting to get intermittant. If I can find my camera I'll take some pictures when I fix it.

Good Luck.
John

[EEE]

I have a switch which I think could very well be it. Take a look and see if it matches your switch?

$13 shipped.