Author Topic: K model ignition and light switches  (Read 1299 times)

Scooter4

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K model ignition and light switches
« on: December 28, 2020, 11:49:42 AM »
Good afternoon,
can anyone provide pictures of the K model ignition and lighting switches please?  I am wondering where the dimmer switch goes and is there a separate switch for the light and separate switch for the ignition?
I am guessing they are toggle switches.  I see a hole in the bracket at the top of the engine.
Maybe the switch is double pole double throw?
I did find the Wico magneto wiring diagram and mine is Wico.  I understand the wire diagram, but it does now show how the switching works.  My M model has a rotary swich.

Please let me know.
Thank you,
Scooter

kartjockey

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #1 on: December 29, 2020, 06:33:57 AM »
My 'K' model info is limited for sure.  I will take a look to see what yours may have looked like

Ricks

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #2 on: December 29, 2020, 08:29:42 AM »
On a Model K the light switch is mounted to the handlebar plate. I believe it is the same spdt switch used on the early Model M. 

There is no ignition switch on a Model K as they  used a compression release to kill the motor.
Rick

Scooter4

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #3 on: December 29, 2020, 12:46:53 PM »
Good afternoon,
Thank you for the replies.
I found an image in the 1950 manual you uploaded (thank you for that work) and it shows a SPDT switch that appears to be located on the top of the engine bracket.  Is the K model not the same as that?
At least it explains the wiring.  If I understand correctly, the lights are always on and the switch just controls headlight HI/LO.

Ricks

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #4 on: December 29, 2020, 01:48:03 PM »
You might be correct on the mounting location. The lights are not always on, the switch is center off. I had a model K that had a switch in the handlebar bracket, but that could have been changed by a previous owner.
Rick

Scooter4

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #5 on: December 29, 2020, 02:42:28 PM »
Thank you for letting me know about the switch, I forgot that some are on/off/on.
Thank you,
Scooter

kartjockey

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #6 on: December 30, 2020, 03:07:53 AM »
I have brand new switches like that if you decide you need one.  Exact match.

Scooter4

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #7 on: December 30, 2020, 02:01:13 PM »
Good afternoon,
Thank you for letting me know you have switches.  I found a vintage one in my stash that should work.
Thank you,
Scooter

kartjockey

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #8 on: December 31, 2020, 05:23:38 AM »
It appears the K model had a very unique cylinder. Uses an exhaust manifold while still having the compression release. But the compression  release is in the front.  Is this what you have  Is it a K engine?

Scooter4

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Re: K model ignition and light switches
« Reply #9 on: December 31, 2020, 02:31:46 PM »
Good afternoon,
Mine does have K serial number and has aluminum cylinder with compression release in front.
Thank you,
Scooter