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ignition

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51oleblue

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Quick question-
I bought an ignition switch from the sponsor, but it seems to be an on / off type. Did 51 chevys have a foot button start instead of a traditional key switch?
my thought is that i turn the key on and step on the switch to start.

thanks
Joe
 
Just So

You're correct Joe ;

They were all fitted with the button starter , just give it a firm shove (no stomping) and your 216/235/261 will shortly roar into life .

FWIW , you can run 12 volts through the original 6 volt starter without damaging it ~ that's how well GM made things back when .

Use # 0 or 1 gauge battery cables and BE SURE to ground the battery to the TRANNY OR ENGINE not the frame ! .
 
I think I know where you are going on this, stock foot pedel starters were around into the mid-fifties. If you have a newer 12 volt motor with key start (off-on-start). Then you will need to go to the later 56'? or so switch from our sponsor ($39). It doesn't fit in the hole in your dash as it was held with the separate switch bracket, also available.

However, with some 1 1/8 inch washers and a little grinding on the old bracket to make the three slots to hold it steady and flatten an edge on the washers, you can haber-dasher the new switch into the old dash bracket and hole and it looks almost factory. No need to carry a pair of channel locks to tighten the old aftermarket up after every third use.

I know you didn't ask, but that's one way to do it.
 
Thanks Flashlight your right on. will install a starter button as I have the ignition switch already.
thanks
Joe
 
Starter Button

FWIW , you can get a heavy duty starter push button and a couple flat washers & mount it in the old pedal starter hole easily , then you have the best (?) of both worlds : the pedal starter and the solenoid operation.....
 
Flashlight said:
OMG!!>>>>you are not going to bugger up your dash are you? Nate will get you for sure. Somebody put a horn button on my 53's dash and I cuss him everyday....where ever he is. Don't do it.
Click to expand...

Somebody drilled new holes to fit a later model radio in mine and I would like to kick his a$$, but haven't yet figured out how to do that to myself. Anyhows, glad I haven't figured how for I would really be sore-tailed by now.
 
I get it! Was planning on hiding it somewhere not sure where yet. Maybe under dash - still looking .
Thanks
Joe
 
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