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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Ignition assembly - interchangeable?

I've had the occasional issue with my ignition key switch; the car just shuts off, without warning, whilst driving. First couple of times, I just re-started (put in neutral, turned key) but then I noticed that just "wriggling" the key could get power back.
I've been told that I need a new ignition key barrel (it wobbles and apparently contact points are worn), and that its best to get a new assembly. The current assembly resembles the one in the picture below however I've seen mention that this is for an earlier model Midget (mine is 1979 UK spec), and that I should have the one like the post below. The first is "Lowe & Fletcher", the second is "Lucas".
My questions are:
1. which one is original for my car?
2. are they interchangeable? ie does it matter which I replace it with? (function/performance/reliability always outweighs originality)
3. which one is likely to be better?
Thanks,
Steve

S Travis

second option:


S Travis

The 2nd one would be found on exports. You've already said yours is UK spec, so you have the right one currently.

There will be no gain in changing type (it won't even fit under your dash properly) and it would even be more prudent to try and aquire simply the rear electrical part of your current switch (a small grub screw holds them in) then you can swap that and keep the same keys etc.

If you must buy a full new switch, get the 1st type as you already have.
Roadwarrior

Try keeping few keys as possiable on the key ring, if the ring is loaded up with charms, tools and lots of keys, it will destroy the key cly very kuick, esp on 40 year old parts

I keep only one key on a fob for the midget, and that works okay

Prop
Prop and the Blackhole Midget

Thanks, that what I figured.
Prop, I only have 4 other keys on the keyring (car doors/boot, petrol cap, house, work), so quite light, but good advice.
S Travis

another tip is to alternate the use of your spare set of keys, say every 6 months, that way it even outs wear, you know the spare keys fit and operate and you know where the spare set of keys are

works well for modern cars keys and with remotes too, gives even wear to batteries and you know the batteries are not too flat to operate properly
Nigel Atkins

This thread was discussed between 21/02/2014 and 22/02/2014

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