Bergisons Tutorials

Video tutorial: Building an Ignition/Starter Keyswitch

Tired of hitting buttons on your keyboard to start the engine? Here is how to build an ignition/starter key-switch for general aviation simpits with just basic tools for under 25 €.

DOWNLOADS: .PDF file Keyswitch Frame Drawing (.PDF) .STL file Keyswitch Frame (.STL)

 

Roger posted on 30.9.2021 at 16:03

Thanks for the reply… I have the lock as you show in that link. It is the female version where the arm is attached with a screw rather than a nut over a threaded stud. The spring would be perfect but is out of stock. I finally tracked down the 6mm standoffs. For the lock I will have to take a M6x1 screw, cut off the head and use it to attach the lock to the spacer. So far I think I have the lock, the 5 position switch and the spacer figured out. Just need to find the springs. The ones I ordered didn’t work, and the ones from the local hardware store don’t either… Still searching…..


 

Roger posted on 29.9.2021 at 13:20

You make it look so easy but sourcing the spring, the spacer and the key lock like yours is impossible here in the states.
Nothing I can find works. The spring is left hand, the key lock has a female connection rather than male. I can’t find a M6 spacer and so on and so on…..but it’s a great idea otherwise.

Bergison

Hi Roger, I'm sorry you have troubles finding the parts to rebuild the key-switch but I don't beleive they're unavailable in the US.

Here is what I found doing a very quick search:

Key Lock:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0963C4RKH/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_KZDYTAMRKQPSQEP5BKKV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Torsion Spring:
https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Torsion-Spring-Direction-Deflection/dp/B005XQJK6G/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=spring+right+wind&qid=1632913543&sr=8-10

Extension Nut:
https://www.amazon.com/NUTW-31373-Threaded-Standoffs-Extension-10mm-100mm/dp/B08X288VMP/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=M6+extension+nut&qid=1632913754&sr=8-3

I didn't check the items in the links for appropriate dimensions (like spring and rod diameters), but they are available in many sizes.
All the best with your build and let me know if I can be of further help!