Morris Minor Owners Club

Hi.Would I be able to change the pull start ignition switch on my 1962,948cc minor for a newer key start.If so, what would I need to change ie solonoid etc ?

Gary,

You will need a new 'twist key' igntion switch and starter solenoid. You can put the solenoid where the existing pull switch currently is to avoid needing new battery cables from the battery to solenoid and solenoid to starter. Or more 'properly', position the solenoid where it goes on the later cars and get new leads.

I did this about 40 years ago, and then reverted back to the pull start during the restoration 15 years ago!

Most love their 'pull start' - it's one less thing to go wrong! you could of course keep the ignition switch as it is- and install a Push Button (this seems to be popular mod on modern 'nerds' cars!) to operate the solenoid - it could go where the pull start knob sits at present. Must say - it was strangley satisfying to switch on and then press the Start button on our Rover 105S !

The pull start probably confuses your average idiot joy rider too

On a previous Minor I had a friend who used to borrow it, but she could never get it started. It really annoyed her that I could go and start the car first go, every time. I told her it is easy to start - turn the key, pull the choke, pull the starter and it goes. Her reply was - oh, you have to turn the key on first?

Yes! Stick to the pull start. You want to avoid buying a new solenoid at all costs as they are made in the far east and the quality (and reliabillity) of new solenoids is terrible.

On my Traveller, the original red push button solenoid lasted about 40 years, the new replacement solenoid lasted about 4 minutes!

Keep it original, keep it reliable.

An added feature of the pull-start is that you can crank the engine from inside the car or under the bonnet without starting it. This can be useful at times for various diagnostic and repair purposes.

I wouldn't change my pull-start. It adds character, is reliable and, as was said above, is probably a good additional anti-theft device against your average chavvy joyrider. It certainly confused the tyre fitters when they tried to move it.