1572 ignition switch reoccuring issue

[CC1572]

Last fall my "original" key switch started acting up on me. I had to jiggle the key to get it to make contact internally to get it to run the coils and actuate the starter. No big deal, I replaced the switch once spring came around. Apparently this was only a temporary fix as the new OEM switch did the same as well as the 2 other switches i've replaced since then. They only seem to last about 2 weeks weather it gets used or not. For the time being I just ran a wire from the starter solenoid and just tapped it to the battery when I needed to fire it up. But now the most recent switch won't even run the pump without jiggling the switch. The last switch I pulled out had water in it so I wrapped this one in tape and it didn't seem to help. First off am I getting bad switches? I would think they could handle some rain being that its designed for outdoor equipment. The mower is stored outside do to lack of storage. Am I getting crap switches or is there a bigger electrical issue that's causing the switch internals to go bad?

[R Bedell]

I am going to assume, there is a Molex Plug Connector that plugs into the terminals of the back of the Ignition. I would highly suspect, that some or all of those terminals inside the connector, are corroded, rusted, or with "high resistance", causing your problem.

I do not see a connector available for that switch, so I am going to venture to say, the only option is is replace the entire Wiring Harness.

---- Now if this was me ------

If I found bad connectors, I would cut the bad Molex Connector out, cut back to good copper, install a QD Spade connector, and install the wire(s) on the respective terminals, on the back of the switch.

[CC1572]

It's not a molex plug but actually ring terminals that get screwed into the switch. I really hate splicing into original harnesses but may not have a choice. This thing is getting to be a real pain to keep running.

[R Bedell]

It's not a molex plug but actually ring terminals that get screwed into the switch.

Are any of the wires or terminals discolored...???

[CC1572]

Not the last time I replaced the switch. No corrosion that I could see but next time I'm off I'll have to tear everything apart, track all the wires and check resistance.

[ol'George]

Go to China fright and get ya one of dem ugly blue tarps for $4.00.
And cover yer lawn mower.
"Outdoor equipment" does not mean leaving it out in the elements is a good idea.
A boat is meant to go in wadder, but not a good idea to leave it outside in da rain.
It plum fills up and makes the seets soggy.

[R Bedell]

Is the tractor wired correctly....???

[Sam Mac]

Are buying an OEM Kubota switch? Kubota part # is 66706-55120

Cub want's over $89 for it. Messicks price is $ 43 and change.

https://www.messicks.com/part/66706-...gnition-switch

[CC1572]

Yea i got them from a Kubota dealer. And as for covering it, in the last 20 years I've never had an issue with ignition switches going bad from rain. Not saying the rain isn't causing an issue. I just hate tarps, they hold in moisture and critters love hiding under them. A lean-to is hopefully in the works but it may not be till next year

[ol'George]

Well in about a month, maybe 2, fellers will be setting kids wading pools at the curb,and they make nice covers, as you say you don't like tarps.
set a sea ment block on it sow when a blow comes it will stay put.
Or go to Walmart and get a new-en on sale if your ashamed to pick one at the curb, they are maybe $10
Then there is one of them camper tops on pick ups, I see them lots of times cheap or a bed liner turned upside down makes a good one also.
your only limited by your imagination keeping things dry.
------Or keep buying cheap imported switches,as it is all they sell