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MMD > Archives > April 2008 > 2008.04.14 > 07Prev  Next


Broken Ampico Drawer Power Switch
By Bruce Clark

Not all Ampico power switches are identical.  Some have longer or
shorter shafts and some are completely different and might not fit your
original switch box.  If one is not familiar with electrical work, it
is best to hire someone with some electrical knowledge.

The usual cause of switch failure is cracking or breaking of the fiber
that supports the metal switch contacts.  It is a very intricate job
to repair a broken switch but it can be done, if one has infinite
patience.  The fiber support can be put back together and glued using
epoxy cement.  The second cause of switch failure is worn out, or
burned contacts.  If this is the cause, the problem would be very
difficult to repair.

In many cases, a simple toggle switch can be substituted.  I recall
replacing a faulty Ampico switch with a switch removed from an old
Hoover upright vacuum cleaner.  The switch was small enough to fit into
the original Ampico cast iron switch box.  The plastic toggle is easily
drilled and fitted with a shaft that can be attached to the connecting
rod.  As far as I know the switch is still functioning.

Bruce Clark


(Message sent Mon 14 Apr 2008, 10:35:43 GMT, from time zone GMT-0400.)

Key Words in Subject:  Ampico, Broken, Drawer, Power, Switch

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