TR4/4A Any tips on running the overdrive switch wiring down the steering column?

[tdskip]

Hi guys. The '67 TR4a did not originally have an OD so I need to run wires from the newly added switch... Anyone been there/done that and have some lessons learned to pass along?

Extra bonus points for ideas that minimize having to disassemble stuff. Grin.

Thanks!

 

[Geo Hahn]

I did this on a TR4 -- just ran the wires down the same 'dagger' as used for the turn signals, etc. That area may be a bit more crowded on a 4A if (as I think) the headlight switch is on the column and uses that same route.

I had to add a D-shaped hole in the right side nacelle, maybe you will too.

 

[DNK]

Those "D" shaped drill bits are getting to be a bit pricey

 

[Andrew Mace]

I did this on a TR4 -- just ran the wires down the same 'dagger' as used for the turn signals, etc. That area may be a bit more crowded on a 4A if (as I think) the headlight switch is on the column and uses that same route.

I had to add a D-shaped hole in the right side nacelle, maybe you will too.

It is arguably easier to purchase the proper escutcheon, part number 611974, which has space and other provision for the correct OD switch. Readily available from all the usual suspects! Of course, this advice applies only to the TR4A and later, as Geo suggests.

 

[Geo Hahn]

Are the replacements metal or plastic (I honestly don't know). When I did mine it came with a right hand escutcheon with D-shaped hole but it was plastic -- I chose to drill my original metal piece.

 

[Andrew Mace]

I think all replacements are plastic, as were most OE from about 1964-ish on. Years ago, I parted a circa 1963 TR4 with OD; it had metal escutcheons. I might still have the escutcheon and switch somewhere....

 

[TR4nut]

I think the plastic/metal cutover point was right at the 4/4A change. On the 4A the switch is on the left side, doubled up with the turn signal switch. For TR4 the right one had the d cutout for the switch if overdrive was installed.

 

[tdskip]

I think the plastic/metal cutover point was right at the 4/4A change. On the 4A the switch is on the left side, doubled up with the turn signal switch.

I believe that is correct, how I am planning to do it unless Don can find that D-shaped drill. Ha.

 

[DNK]

Let me dig thru my drill drawer, Tom.
Until then. Better get your credit card out

 

[Gliderman8]

Hey Tom... welcome back by the way!
Since don can't find his D-drill, you might consider going to a square drill bit. Yes, I can supply one if needed....

 

[RossL]

Hey Tom... welcome back by the way!
Since don can't find his D-drill, you might consider going to a square drill bit. Yes, I can supply one if needed....

I never knew that was possible

 

[DNK]

They'd been doing it with wood for years