Engine Start Button

[bombsquad21]

If you have too many keys on your keyring..


Eventually you will get too much play in your ignition barrel. Hard starting will follow. I had already replaced my ignition switch. An engine start button was called for!

First, I gathered tools.


Then removed the clamshell..


Disconnected the battery and the removed the ignition switch from the barrel.



You may notice my entire switch and plug assembly has been removed. It is no longer screwed into the steering column. You can still get at the all important "fat red wire" and the "black wire with red stripe" with out unplugging anything.

I bought a starter button and some 10GA electrical wire for the friendly chaps down at Ozzy Auto. Supercheap was not only heaps more expensive, but really no help at all. ( I call this Bunnings syndrome) The bill came to less than $15.

Basically all that was left for me to do was,

a. Splice into the fat red wire and crimp, solder and tape a length of the 10GA wire which is running to one point on the starter button.



b. Repeat this step with the black wire with red stripe. It will attach to the button like this. I did a little trimming and taping after this.



Then I has to pick a spot for the button. So I ran the wires, pulled of the a/c knob cover. Unscrewed the ashtray, window a/c and de-mister panel.



Then I utilized the blank button space right in the middle.



I may modify the switch and actually mount it into the blank button at a later stage, but for now it's secure. And actually it's a lot of fun to use.

Later I may install an illuminated switch from an s2000 in the same spot. Just like the one installed on this MX5.



Any suggestions, comments or questions welcome!

[Jarred]

Cool fun.

What's the start up procedure now? Is it more of a hassle?

[mk3pete]

wouldnt that make your car so much easier too steal

[Pullstarter]

Most cars that have button starters still have keys and ignition barrels, they just don't start the engine. I'm assuming bomby has done something similar?

[peedman]

His is a 97 so it has immobiliser so the key will need to be close to the ignition barrel. The other way to do it is to tap the yellow and black wire (switched power) that way the key needs to be in and at the acc position before it will start.

[mk3pete]

ahha dats sweet

[Jon_Vr6]

this technology is old!
my 1964 mini 850 has a starter button on the floor lol
awesome idea tho

[bombsquad21]

Correct, turn the key till the dash lights come. Then vroom! Car has an immobilizer and wont start without the key.

However, if anyone would like to try and steal my car I would be very obliging. I'm sleep deprived lately and feel a violent episode coming on. Peace!

[rayray086]

Good stuff Luke!

[static1800]

probably shouldnt post this sort of stuff online, now we all know where your secret button is