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MG MGB Technical - windshield wiper, overdrive, washer switch

I have a 1975 mgb. Last year I installed an overdrive and had to clean up the switch unit to get the overdrive switch to work. After re-installing the washer switch did not work. One wire, a green with black strip, runs up the stalk. A black wire skinned back about 1/2 inch is in the area and is loose. It appears to be the ground wire but I can't find where it goes. I think it grounds the stalk but don't see an attachment. May have to buy a new switch but it seems this should be fixable. The other functions in this switch work fine (wiper, od). Any suggestions?
kra Karl

Black wire runs up the stalk alongside the green and black if you can see the broken end you may be able to resolder them together. Jim
jim soutar

Even if the washer switch is unfixable I think I'd be tempted to provide an alternative switch elsewhere before buying a new column stalk, they are expensive!
P Hunt

Jim and Paul thank you for responding. Jim, the wire running up the stalk takes up most space available. It does't look like even a bare wire could go up there. Is the cap on the end of the stalk removable? I tried with no sucess. Paul, installing another switch is a possibility, but I like this location. Actually I don't even keep fluid in the washer so never use it. I just like the idea that I have everything working the way its supposed to. Stupid I guess. Again thanks for the response.
kra Karl

Black wire,sometimes does not have insulation up the stalk as stalk fits into plastic block but for sure thats where it goes. I have never successfully removed the end cap. Jim
jim soutar

"I just like the idea that I have everything working the way its supposed to. Stupid I guess"

Me too, I've replaced the burnt out rheostat on every car I've had that came with one, and never use that.

Does the black wire just connect to the metal tube of the stalk? I.e. not run up the stalk all the way to the switch, the 'other' side of the switch being connected to the tube as well.
P Hunt

Jim and Paul I think I solved the mistery. It appears there is a grove in the hole the stalk pushes into. I think the bare black wire lies in the grove and the spline is pushed (forced) into the hole making good contact with the bare wire. I have the switch together but have not installed it in the car yet for testing. If it works I will post it here. Karl
kra Karl

Jim and PAUL THAT IS EXACTLY HOW IT GOES. NOW WORKING FINE. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP. I AM IMPRESSED WITH MOST THINGS ON THE MGB. IT SEEMS IF YOU STUDY IT LONG ENOUGH YOU CAN FIX IT. KARL
kra Karl

This thread was discussed between 16/01/2010 and 20/01/2010

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