F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

I have an early '48 F-1. When I got the truck 100 years ago the bezel was not snapped onto the dash side of the ignition switch. It was happily resting in the glove compartment. OK, says I, I'll just snap it on when I get a chance.

Well, today was the day. I spent several hours cleaning up a rat's nest of tangled wiring, mostly coming either from or to said switch. So, then to put it all back together - and install the bezel. I know how to get the switch into the dashboard and how the whole thing works, but the bezel doesn't want to snap on. Following the instructions in the Ford F-1 Shop Manual I have it indexed properly and pushed out against the spring, but I can't get the bezel to snap on. Am I just not being bold enough or.....? It's hard to do with just two hands!!

Suggestions invited from folks who have been through this seemingly simple drill successfully!!

Re: F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

I have a reproduction switch and there are some internal pieces that get in the way. In my case it is fairly easy to correct because the parts are out where I can see what is interfering with what and modify it. If you have the same issue it will be a little more difficult in the dash. The springs on these things are very heavy and it takes a lot of effort to compress it and get the bezel to twist. So if it is an original switch it should go if you can get the spring to compress enough, if it is a repo it many need cleaned up a little.

Re: F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

The bezel on 48-50 trucks fits tighter than the 51-52 style. Make sure you don't have dirt or rust that is keeping the spring in the bezel from moving.

Re: F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

Be bold.

Re: F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

It's a bitch to push in and turn and snap on the bezel, but it will go together unless you have damaged parts.

Mike

Re: F-1 ignition switch install - Suggestions?
 

Keep even amt. of pressure on the switch and have orientated slightly so when you snap on bezel and twist at the same time to make key in vertical position.. it's a bitch but will work make sure that the insert for the key has a slight amt of grease and moves free. Good Luck.