Bad ignition switches on NH TN tractors

[KenPauling]

My new TN65D has given me problems trying to start it since delivery. At first I thought it was a faulty safety switch, then maybe my fault not having something in neutral. After checking everything out, I found it was the starter key switch! If I put it all the way in the ignition, the key refused to turn! After much tinkering around, I discovered that I could only make it work if I put the key into the ignition about 2/3 of the way. Since the tractor was new I called up my local dealer, and he ordered a new switch for me. The new switch finally arrived last week and I made arrangements for the mechanic to replace it. He came yesterday and put the new switch in my tractor. SAME PROBLEM! The new switch would not turn unless you put the key in all the way and pulled it out 1/3 of the way and jiggled it around for a while! I can't believe this situation. Replacing a bad switch with another defective switch. Has anyone else had a similar problem with their TN key switches? I can't believe I am the only one with this problem. The mechanic said he didn't know anything about this type of problem with the TN tractor. I have all the luck! Unfortunately its bad luck! Now what do I do??? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[bgott]

The rubber gasket at the opening of the switch that you have to stick the key through is screwy. I remember having some kind of problem with the switch. I squirted some WD- 40 into the switch and it swelled the gasket up so bad I had to cut it out to get the key in. After I cut it out the problem was solved. You might try some silicon grease, the kind they sell for disc brake slides. The grease is formulated so it doesn't affect rubber. Grease the gasket so it doesn't grab the key and that way you'll still have the gasket there to keep water out. Regular grease will swell it like the WD- 40 did mine.

 

[TOMLESCOEQUIP]

It's not just the TN series..........My TC33D (2003 model) ate its ignition switch at the 10 hour mark..........The switch on mine came apart ( maybe it's made in 2 sections) and blew the starter circuit fuse.........Dealer came out and replaced the fuse..........it started a couple times and blew the fuse again................I got to looking and found it myself...........They did get me a new switch under warranty, and its worked flawlessly for the last 90 hours or so......I believe there is a NH "ASIST" bulletin out on the TC series tractors covering the switch problem..............Good luck...........TOM

 

[AndyMA]

The 2 TN's I have had TN75D and TN75S have had no ignition switch problems. They are cab models so maybe that matters. My 2120 needs a new switch but it is 18 years old so I guess its had a good life.

Andy

 

[RickB]

I read this post this morning, and had not heard of, or experienced this problem with TN switches. Then today I found one exactly as described. As for TC switches, The only key problems we have encountered is on black chassis Class II's which use the same key as the Class III's. Keeping the rubber cover on these keys used on Class II's puts pressure on the switch causing one of the 7A ignition circuit fuses to blow. Removing ths rubber key grip cover eliminates that problem. Placing the older 'Ford' style key in this same switch usually causes the tumblers to fall out when the key is withdrawn. Don't ask how I know THAT!

 

[Phred]

No problem with mine. It starts everytime without any problems no matter how you put the key in it.

Fred

 

[PennTN75]

TN75A - purchased new this summer - ignition became difficult to insert key. A rubber gasket started pulling out of the ignition. It just came out the rest of the way this weekend. Key inserts smoothly and removes smoothly now. Of course, now I'm worried about water. Good thing I store it inside.

 

[dylan]

I've got a TC33D. My switch has been replaced twice. I've got the rubber off the key now. I must have blown over 30 fuses trying to start it this year. I keep getting told that nothing is wrong.

 

[dylan]

Well another switch bit the dust today. The tractor is at the dealer again for switch number 3. Do you think they are making better ones yet?

 

[Soundguy]

Don't feel bad. The TISCO replacement switches we get for the old ford N series go bad pretty quickly as well.

Soundguy