Ignition switch failure -- Beck/Arnley = Mazda Genuine for $100 less
 

I don't know if this is common knowledge with the ignition switch having routine failures for our aging chariots, but I ordered a Beck/Arnley switch from RockAuto.com for $86 shipped. I smiled when I saw "Made In Japan" on the box label, but was shocked when I actually opened it up...

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f3...IMAG0064-1.jpg

Mazda Genuine, FD part number and all.

Now if only they "distributed" the window switches.

Good find.

Where does this go on the ignition column?

This is on the opposite side of the key tumbler, so your left hand side. This part that contains the moving contacts and establishes circuits when you turn the key tumbler. If your starter suddenly won't acknowledge the world at all as mine did, but you have strong power everywhere else, this is a likely culprit if not a clutch switch. I'd been starting my car with a wire under the hood for the last week.

I just found this close-enough install post for a Maxima so you can see what this part is: http://forums.maxima.org/4th-generat...ml#post7108179

I've replaced my ignition switch with a new Mazda part a while ago (and paid a LOT more!) and it's SUPER easy to do. Remove steering column surround, unplug harness to ignition switch, a screw or two, and it's out in your hand.

The key tumbler simply has a tab that fits into that switch - when you turn the key, the tab turns the switch.

Dale

Yep... that's it. It's held in by one screw and you can fiddle with removing the harness after you unscrew it and pop it out -- there's some slack in there and it'll be easier.

Is this something you'd recommend doing even if there's no problem with the current ignition switch?

Looks like I'll be spending 86 bucks next week. I want to swap mine out as a preventative thing. Thanks!!

How the heck do you navigate the RockAuto parts site to find the thing? That site has a HORRIBLE layout and the switch is not listed under either "ignition parts" or "electrical switches" so where are they hiding the thing?

Thanks again :)

I just typed in ignition switch assembly and it came up.

It's under the "starter" drop down menu.

BECK/ARNLEY Part # 2011858 {#FD0166151A}
$70.99

I believe that's what you're looking for.

Look in here and follow link.
https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generati...witch-1073222/

Good find :icon_tup:

a couple years later...an update for anyone else needing this:
1) I bought the same part from Amazon (search: Beck Arnley 201-1858), $56 w/ prime shipping.
2) Found this video that confirmed my issue (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwx1...30930108137914)
-note: I had the classic "click click no start" issue and it's been getting worse over the past several months. I bypassed the Clutch switch and Security Relay, but it didn't resolve the issue. Once I found the video, it started every time I was pushing on the ignition switch; I'm hoping it's just the switch, and not a worn ignition/key tumbler.

Well shit. I guess Ray Crowe has met his match :rofl: :D

Edit: Interestingly enough, my Prime has it at $67.78..... I believe that our friends at Amazon raise (and lower) prices based on demand :wtf:

Yup, prices fluctuate all the time. The site camelcamelcamel.com tracks Amazon pricing history, though funny enough this part only has pricing data starting today :)

weird...when I bought it, it did say it was the last unit in stock. maybe they found more, but at a higher price??