Having ignition switch problems?

[ReformedHippy]

I recently started having a problem with the key getting stuck about half way between lock and unlock..(2006 FLHTPI)....usually took 5-10 minutes of 'wiggling' the key to get it back into either position...removed the switch and it worked smooth as silk..replaced it and still sticking...had the dealer check for a recall and they said there wasnt one...common problem they told me...solution was to buy a new switch for $100 and change....I had already tried graphite with no improvement so I washed the switch out with contact cleaner and squirted some white Lithium grease in the top and bottom...works like new now...hope this helps someone else save $100...

[Jacket4256]

sweet thanks for heads up you buy the bike from knox harley ?

[ReformedHippy]

Originally Posted by Jacket4256

sweet thanks for heads up you buy the bike from knox harley ?

No,but it was a K-ville PD bike...bought it at a K-ville car dealership....

[toorglide]

Originally Posted by ReformedHippy

squirted some white Lithium grease in the top and bottom...works like new now...hope this helps someone else save $100...

i use that stuff in all my key holes, car doors, ignition, pad locks , whatever

[Stash905]

Originally Posted by ReformedHippy

I recently started having a problem with the key getting stuck about half way between lock and unlock..(2006 FLHTPI)....usually took 5-10 minutes of 'wiggling' the key to get it back into either position...removed the switch and it worked smooth as silk..replaced it and still sticking...had the dealer check for a recall and they said there wasnt one...common problem they told me...solution was to buy a new switch for $100 and change....I had already tried graphite with no improvement so I washed the switch out with contact cleaner and squirted some white Lithium grease in the top and bottom...works like new now...hope this helps someone else save $100...

Problem with any grease, it attracts dirt and turns to gunk. Not really recommended for locks.

[ReformedHippy]

Originally Posted by Stash905

Problem with any grease, it attracts dirt and turns to gunk. Not really recommended for locks.

Well,it beats the hell outta not being able to turn the key at all,wouldnt you agree?....

[Nathang]

Might get good results with Silicone spray, might have less tendency to get thick w/ dirt.

I'd be hesitant to put any lube in a lock if it wasn't casusing trouble, since I had electrical problems with my ignition switch, LowRider quit dead on me a couple of times, I thought it was the kill switch malfunctioning, it just turned off the spark, I'd roll to the side of the road turn stuff on and off and it would restart fine, after a couple of times it had me really worried it was going to happen in the HOV lane. Dave advised the switch replacement and that fixed it right up

[Stash905]

Originally Posted by ReformedHippy

Well,it beats the hell outta not being able to turn the key at all,wouldnt you agree?....

Yes, I agree, but you may cause a problem down the road. there are dry lubricants sold specifically for use in locks.