I've gone through two ignition switches in a year's time. Both were used and not new ones. When I got my 1200, it did have an aftermarket starter relay installed, but I removed it when I installed the last switch I got from the wrecker.

How long should a new switch last, and should I put the aftermarket relay back in?

My 1200 is driven daily if that matters.

Comment: I ordered a new switch online yesterday from Rockauto.com, and the thing was on my door today! That's impressive.

Yes, I got one from Rockauto, they are quick and good price.

The ignition switch is good for 10 years or so. Some last longer, some less.


Quote:That's odd -- all 1200s have a starter relay (it's on the starter, integrated into the solenoid).

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Okay, Now that I installed the new one today, I won't worry about what I removed.

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It was an external one installed in the general area of the ballast resistor. I assumed the previous owner did this to keep the amperage away from the ignition switch. It's not on any of the wiring diagrams I have, so I removed it and ran the battery cable and "start" wire directly to the starter.

The new switch was very inexpensive. It was money well spent.