Keyed Ignition Switch location / Approval

[mfleming]

So I'm dong a bunch of rewiring and replumbing behind the instrument panel on our new to us 1977 PA-18 150. The mag switches are in the factory position on the left panel near the trim. I'm interested in doing away with the toggle switches and installing a keyed switch on the panel. Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-13-30 talks about moving the ignition to the instrument panel. The bulletin says "Relocate the magneto toggle switches from the left cabin panel to the airplane’s wing root or instrument panel, not near the fuel primer". I see photos of the keyed switch above the primer and this seems to be the easiest place to install the switch. To me, just remove the starter button and install the switch - Done!

Questions:

• What's the consensus on the keyed switch above the primer? (I understand the feelings of some to leave it where it is)
• The ACS switch is $190 but doesn't seem approved for a cub, the Bendix switch is $595 but appears to be approved. How say on the ACS switch?

 

[bob turner]

Probably a minor alteration. Why do you need a key? I go the other way, since every mechanic has a different idea of what L and R mean on a rotary switch. A mag fails and the shop overhauls the wrong one?

Someday I will sell those pesky AA-7 switches.

 

[mfleming]

Probably a minor alteration. Why do you need a key? I go the other way, since every mechanic has a different idea of what L and R mean on a rotary switch. A mag fails and the shop overhauls the wrong one?

Someday I will sell those pesky AA-7 switches.

It’s the most compact solution on the panel is why I’m going to a key. I just really want to move the mag switches off the left panel.

 

[Steve Pierce]

I use the ACS switch in my rebuilds. Common part. I like the switch on right side so my left hand is free to work the throttle at start up.

 

[dgapilot]

Just don’t forget to add the ACS switch to your AD search! Granted 2000 hours until the inspection is due, but make sure it is in the search and listing!

 

[hotrod180]

....To me, just remove the starter button and install the switch - Done! ....

Dunno about anyone else, but I like having a separate starter button.
Just the other day, I had occasion to want to spin the engine (in the hangar) without it firing up.
Tough to do that with a start-position key switch.

 

[WhiskeyMike]

Dunno about anyone else, but I like having a separate starter button.
Just the other day, I had occasion to want to spin the engine (in the hangar) without it firing up.
Tough to do that with a start-position key switch.

I agree with that. Please also note that keys make awful gouges in your noggin in the event of….And if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Buy gas.

 

[DENNY]

I have the ACS switch on the right side above and to the Right of my primer. It works well for starting as Steve mentioned.
DENNY

 

[mfleming]

Having the mag toggle switches close to the trim handle gives me the willies. The other day I was flying and my ATP rated wife was sitting in the back seat. She said every time I trimmed, my winter jacket was dragging over the mag switches. Granted, they have the half moon guards but that's no guarantee. It's my understanding that Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-13-30 was almost a AD to move the switches.
As far as hitting your noggin on the keyed switch...there's plenty of head smashing objects on the instrument panel as it is. I'm also getting a helmet

 

[Steve's Aircraft (Steve)]

We moved our toggles to the dash via just a keyed mag switch with a separate start button. After having an original Piper Switch fail to where the airplane started while turned off when hand propping plus having a toggle switch do the same thing prompted the change. Decided the keyed switches are less likely to do that.

Airplanes starting when you don't want them too is a heck of a pucker factor. Especially when you are in front of the prop.

 

[hotrod180]

And as far as accidently bumping switches to or leaving in an "ON" position--
I like to remove the key from the mag switch & hang it on the altimeter knob.
I've seen others put the key on top of the glare shield. (or in their pocket)
Just a good safety habit to get into--
kinda like never leaving a tow bar attached when not actually in use.

 

[sixmile]

And as far as accidently bumping switches to or leaving in an "ON" position--
I like to remove the key from the mag switch & hang it on the altimeter knob.
I've seen others put the key on top of the glare shield. (or in their pocket)
Just a good safety habit to get into--
kinda like never leaving a tow bar attached when not actually in use.

I taped a spare key under the panel in case you drop it and goes under the floor boards

 

[dgapilot]

And as far as accidently bumping switches to or leaving in an "ON" position--
I like to remove the key from the mag switch & hang it on the altimeter knob.
I've seen others put the key on top of the glare shield. (or in their pocket)
Just a good safety habit to get into--
kinda like never leaving a tow bar attached when not actually in use.

I always put the keys on the glare shield where I can see them from outside the airplane when working anywhere near the prop!