[Tigers] Ignition Switch

[Tom Parker]

This is off topic, but important: On the Tiger (and Alpine, I think) the
ignition switch configuration is Accessory, Off, On, Start. The same (more
or less) on my old Fords (the new(er) Ranger has Accessory past the key
remove position. So you have to go through "off" to get to "Accessory."

GM is in the midst of a recall of the Chevy Cobalt and other models because
of a "weak detent" in the ignition switch assembly (this from a report on
CNBC tonight, but it's been in the news for months.) Their configuration:
Remove Key, Off, Accessory, On, Start. In the failing switch the key can
move from "on" to "Accessory" with very little force. (and "on" if I saw
the key position correctly is slightly to the right past vertical) The
"Fix" increases the detent force so it's harder to move the key BUT THE CAR
CAN STILL FAIL. (Imaginative drivers can induce failure if given the
opportunity...)

The "Fix" is to increase the force needed to move the key, but the root
problem is the configuration of the key: Accessory is next to On, and
that;'s not good.

Here's the reason for the note: I checked my Toyota Matrix, and it's set up
the same way as the Cobalt: Off, Accessory, On, Start. It's the only other
car I own, but I'll bet newer cars pretty much have the same configuration.
It's worth taking the time to check your cars. If the key moves from On to
Accessory the engine quits, no power steering, brakes, traction control,
air bags, etc., but the radio still works, which means the driver might not
notice it immediately.

No cause to panic, but anyone who drives the car(s) might ought to know
that it could happen to them.

Tom
'67 Mark 2