OK I know I'm not the first to run into this problem so Im looking for how any of you may have solved it cheaply.

The 4WD switch on my 1990 looks like the first image, but when you go to any parts store, the part they sell you is the one in the second photo.

Both the electrical connectors and the threads are wrong. I could work around the electrical issue, but not the wrong threads.

Does anyone have a part number that works?

BTW, the first photo is from quad4x4, and apparently they sell the correct part, but for $150!! I want to fix it, but not that badly.

 

The old switches are pretty stout. Are you sure it's not working? Might be some hard/old wire.

 

Hmmmm....sure it's out there, but under what listing? I will do some digging.

Any chance you can figure out what size, and thread pattern the OEM unit use?

 

No continuity between the blades open or closed.

 

Yes, I will pull it out again and measure threads.

 

Yes, I will pull it out again and measure threads.
I know dorman makes these types of switches so there should be something out there.
I had the guy at NAPA check for the same part on a 87 chevy 4x4, and the part was no longer available.
With the NP205 being used in so many applications, I would think this would be easier to find.

 

I've been searching around for about an hour now. I can not find a replacement unit for under $140!!

I'm really interested in the thread size, and pitch. I have want to search for a potential replacement unit. There has to be something out there, a reverse light switch from a manual tranny somewhere, hat uses a switch similar to the the one used on the NP205.

 

How far does the plunger travel when it is activated?

If it were mine and I could not find one I would gut the switch and have the plunger activate a microswitch.

Or make an adapter to mate a newer metric switch to the old thread pitch.

Jim

 

Kind of the direction I'm thinking.

 

Me three.
With a twin stick set up that would be the only way to have the light work.
I am thinking off the linkage.

 

I've been thinking about that as well.

 

Ok I finally had some time to remove and measure the switch:

Thread is 1/2"-13 TPI x 3/8" long

Plastic plunger extends 11/16" from base.

Part Number on body is 15121 339

I also found these compatible part numbers on another forum, but they are supposedly discontinued:
MOPAR # 4210 979
GM # 15594176

If any of you can find something that works, that would be great. Thanks!

 

Thanks for the info. But I got Knittle to get me the info yesterday.

I have been digging around the internet for hours now trying to find something that will work. Not a lot out there with that thread pattern, I can't find anything that is a "direct" swap. But I have found a couple that have some promise.

Will probably require a bit of "thinking outside the box"...but I have a few ideas.

 

....I have a lathe and milling machine

Also FYI, according to quad4x4, the switch is normally closed

 

Stop bragging.... I wish I could say the same thing.....

I'm trying to find something that will be pretty much a drop in. With maybe a couple small modifications...or other easily sourced parts. Some quality backyard engineering.....