Re: 1955 1956 ignition bezel reproduction update

Posted by HH56 On 2022/8/28 16:02:12

Crin, In post #17 Mike from Tucson Packards has offered up a NOS bezel for use as a pattern. He also might have an old ignition switch he could loan along with the bezel so you can see exactly how they fit together. The bezel will need both tabs intact to be used as a direct pattern as the tabs are not the same because of the large and small size pins on the switch. After he gets settled from his recent trip maybe you and Mike could touch bases via PM and work out the next step. After you see a bezel and what is involved then could come back with what you think is the best solution for a repro material and if the original price would hold. Go from there on deciding if it would still be a viable project.

I am also of the opinion that a nickel alloy casting would work just fine. As others have pointed out, originals lasted a long time and many of us won't be around to see a failure even if the repro only lasts half as long as the original. Weakening the spring a tad for a bit less strain is not a terrible idea either.

If there is a problem or a long delay getting a bezel from Mike then I can supply one and a switch but with the scratches, my bezel is not really that great to use as a pattern.