First Boxster task completed - new Ignition switch fitted to my 986

[ALBXTR]

Hi All,
On Saturday with much trepidation I tackled the ignition switch replacement - I'd ordered a replacement for just under £30 delivered from 9Apart which came with some instructions.

It's resolved the gremlins I had which included:

• Key not returning to 'drive' position after starting = wipers / lights not working
• Steering lock didn't engage
• Radio didn't always switch off when key removed = flat battery
• Key 'difficult' to remove

It's not a difficult task, just 'fiddly' - the hardest part is getting used to lying on your back in the drivers footwell with your head by the footrest pad / pedals looking up - a good head torch is invaluable!
I needed to use a small socket bit adapter with small flat screwdriver bit to remove the old switch - the standard screwdrivers I had were just too long. You can't see the screw head so it's very much by feel to locate it. I did remove the -ve terminal before starting the work 'just in case' which I would recommend.

It probably took me an hour all in - but having done one I could do the next in around 30 mins I would think.

Roof clean using the AutoGlym kit is next task on the list then either perspex screen or entire hood replacement depending on results - I quite like the dark blue hood with Zenith blue body

 

[Mike1960]

Hi Alan, always good to hear of a low cost fix that worked. Its always nice to replace something and afterwards all is well.
Good luck with the hood clean. I did mine a few years ago when I got the car and it was extremely satisfying to get it back to black.
The first waterproofing is fairly easy, but once its been done, the next can be a bit more of a faff as the treatment just runs off.
All the best Mike.

 

[ALBXTR]

Thanks Mike - which product did you use to clean the hood ?

I've also been told about a 'renovo' product you buy in the colour to 'paint' the hood to further improve finish but I'm going to wait to see the results with AutoGlym first

 

[Mike1960]

Hi Alan,
I used Autoglym when I first did it, both to clean and seal. It’s good stuff and came in a kit from Halfords if I remember correctly. The proofer was a spray.
I now clean the top with shampoo whenever I clean the car. The car is garaged so the roof doesn’t get very dirty, but if left uncovered does suffer from spider poo.
I changed to Renovo as a proofer. Mainly because it’s painted on and I don’t get overspray. I apply two coats painted at 90 degrees to each other. It’s a PITA particularly the 2nd coat, trying to get a liquid to soak into a fabric that has just been waterproofed.
2 coats is about 500ml of Renovo.