Dr.Porsche

Ok, new project. Operation Push Button Start:
Why: Just because, and I hate having keys at the track.
What: I would like to install a toggle switch and a push button, to start the car.
Who: Has anyone done this? I'm sure some of the Club Racers have.

I have searched removal of the ignition, and am still a 'lil confused. I would like to take the "normal" switch out, so I do not need the key..
#1 Is this possible?
#2 How will this effect the "wheel lock"?
#3 Does anyone have a schematic for the wiring that will help me out (actually you will be helping my Father out, as he is flying out from the 'Burg to help me with this one-I have NO clue about electrical stuff).
#4 Will this effect the centering of the steering wheel shaft (I read something about that in a previous post.

I of course will take lots of pics to post later. This is in the planning stage. I have only begun to look for parts.

Thanks in advance.

potent951turbo

Having previously been in the bimmer world, this is a pretty common procedure for a lot of the E36 guys. Some of them made it so they could still start the car with the key and others went with the button only. If your looking for a nice push start button, they were using the one off a BMW Z8 and just ordering down at the parts counter.

35thSLP

The S2000 has a nice start button as well.

Dr.Porsche

Getting the push button is not a problem at all, it's the wiring and what is entailed with getting the ignition out. Z8 button is nice though..probably too nice.

testarossa_td

There are kits all day on ebay..

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GENUI...QQcmdZViewItem


My understanding is you are going to want to drill out the ignition lock pin first.
Then from there wiring(using factory manuals for reference) should not be a problem.

Links that might help....searched ignition lock

http://frwilk.com/early944/misc/key.htm

https://rennlist.com/forums/showpost...59&postcount=7

http://www.clarks-garage.com/shop-manual/elect-25.htm

https://rennlist.com/forums/showthre...=ignition+lock

Mike Buck

I have one these setup in my car.

http://www.longacreracing.com/catalo...d=447&catid=13


Took the whole ignition and wheel lock assembly off the steering shaft. You will have to at least disable the wheel lock (grind it down) if you really don't want to use a key. That will be the hardest/most time consuming part. Wiring is pretty straightforward once you pull the connector off the back of the ignition switch. Buddy of mine wired it for me at the track in about 20 minutes. I have a seperate switch for power to windows and lights etc..

Dr.Porsche

Some very good info here. Testarossa_td thanks for the links. Mike, that is very much what i want to do. A toggle for power, emulating the #1 key position, and a seperate push button to engage the starter.

Dr.Porsche

Mike, do you still use a key?

moliver

As of right now I still use a key, but as soon as I have the time I am going to remove the steering lock, and ditch the key forever....well except for use in the door locks.

You be nice to my little old 924, but not too nice.