Ignition switch options, questions.

This is my first post. I have been reading a ton of the great info on this site and finally decided to register.

I recently bought an 1980 XJ 750 Maxim. It is a project bike. Anyway, the ignition switch is broken. I want to get an ignition switch. Im not concerned about looks really i just want something cheap that works. On one of the posts i noticed someone suggest that a marine switch from autozone/napa etc would work. Is this true? I went to napa and found a switch but wasn't sure how it would fit. How do I wire it? This switch appears to only have 3 positions. on/off/other . . . the broken one has 3 wires going to a 3-flat connections. The marine switch at the store ( its like 11$) has four screw like prongs and another one in the middle. Can i use this? if so how do i wire it properly? I was thinking of putting it where the security chain used to be ( under air filter? ) since it would look weird. Any comments would be great. thanks

 

I'm not a wiring Guru like some of the guys here, but if you can post a pic of the switch and the wiring diagram that came with it (assuming it has one to show you what terminal does what) then one of the guys may be able to help out. I'm sure one of the Bobber brtheren that have done relocations would know. Just sayin'.

 

The Ignition Switch.

The Ignition Switch is THE No.-1 most Generic Outsourced Component on Bikes "Made in Japan".

Shop around for a OEM Replacement.
Check with Len. Member: chacal
Surf the Web.
JC Whitney
Parts'nMore
Old Bike Barn

This ones 25-Bucks ... New:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Yamaha-X ... 483fc65743

I've seen them on sale for $19.95

 

Thanks. I was able to find a few online for around 30 bucks. I was just wondering if something like what i mentioned above would work. Like this

http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Detail ... 0006420209

or even this

http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Detail ... 0293960643

http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Detail ... 0126470747

Thanks for answering.

 

I was thinking about an inexpensive auto switch and then thought "marine". Went and talked with parts guy at Mercury dealership. According to him, their switches aren't really any more moisture proof than regular auto switches. Reason; they're still made to go into some sort of housing...

skillet
BTW and "marine" was still quite a bit more $$$

 

Many different model Yamahas use the same ignition switch and you can get a used one off Ebay (remember to get the key with it!) for less than new if you want to go that route.

 

For $25.00 you get a NEW Switch and Keys.
Plug-in and play.
No fooling a round with wiring.
Added security of Front-end lock and Park Lamp option.

Could save the Bike.
Might save your life.

 

Alright, you guys are making it very clear to me to just get the regular switch.