TC33DA How do I change the Ignition switch

[Tanberry]

The Ignition switch went out on my TC33DA yesterday . I have 450 hours on the tractor but have had difficulty turning the key after about 100 hours . I ordered a new one from Messick's today . I'm trying to figure out how to get to the switch to change it out . Does the turn signal switch just to the left of the key pull off ? Doesn't appear to be any way to reach behind and unplug it . After reading some of the posts about how poorly made the switch are I will opt for something better if this one fails.

 

[2tofly]

Open the engine and remove the right side lower engine panel. On the right aft side of the engine compartment locate two outboard 13mm bolts, the long bolt is on bottom, shorter bolt on top. Remove both bolts. Under the dashboard two panels are joined with two 13mm bolts, remove the bolts. Gently seperate dashboard panels, pull down then out on right lower panel under dash. The rubber mat will flex and steering adjust knob can be moved. The signal switch housing must clear a rod to allow the top of the panel clearance so you can reach the starter switch Molex connector. If our part is OEM good luck, it is in my opinion a cheap plastic assembly prone to early failure. I purchased after market replacement made in Italy, wish I had read the post on this site first, could have saved $30. The switch removal is disconnect the Molex connector, remove starter switch jam nut, and remove the plastic starter switch assembly. Installation is just the reverse just make sure you gently move the wire harnesses and turn signal assembly to avoid crimping or snagging cotter pin in the rod. Lots of good advice in other post, helped me a great deal.

 

[Tanberry]

Thanks for the reply . I plan to pull the old switch today and have it ready for the new one on Monday . I had to have the switch for the rear PTO replace about a week ago . A 50 dollar part and 400 dollars for labor .

 

[pedalstomper78]

If you have a problem with the keyswitch getting hard, it's usually because it melts internally. I went through three of them on my Case DX33 before I finally figured out what I needed to do.

The problem is that there is too much of a draw through the key switch and that causes things to melt. Once you replace the switch, tear it apart and I'm sure that this is what you will find inside of there. Read this thread...
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/new-holland-owning-operating/124642-tc33d-wont-start-5.html

Do the relay in the thread and you won't have any more key/starting problems. Took me about an hour and cost me about $7 for the relay, and I had the wire laying around. Well worth the investment of time and money.