Ignition Switch, with Keys, For Bus 55-67

OVERVIEW

Restore the reliability and security of your classic Volkswagen with this premium EMPI Ignition Switch, specifically engineered for the iconic 1955-1967 VW Type 2 Bus. There is nothing more frustrating than climbing into your vintage Split Window, turning the key, and meeting the silence of a failed electrical contact or a physically seized lock cylinder. Over decades of service, original ignition switches suffer from internal arcing, pitted contacts, and mechanical wear that leads to "sticky" operation or intermittent starting issues. This high-quality reproduction serves as a direct-fit replacement, ensuring that your electrical system engages precisely every time you prepare for a cruise. Designed to replicate the original factory specifications, it provides that crisp, tactile click between the "Off," "On," and "Start" positions that every air-cooled enthusiast demands during a high-quality restoration.

Crafted by EMPI, a leader in the air-cooled industry for over half a century, this ignition switch assembly includes a fresh set of keys, allowing you to bypass the headache of trying to source a locksmith for a worn-out original barrel. Whether you are performing a full frame-off restoration on a 15-window Deluxe or simply trying to get your daily-driver Kombi back on the road, this unit offers the perfect balance of vintage aesthetics and modern manufacturing reliability. The housing is built to withstand the rigors of the dashboard environment, while the internal copper contacts are designed to handle the amperage required for your starter solenoid without premature failure. Don''t let a faulty fifty-year-old switch leave you stranded at a show or on the trail; upgrade to a component that guarantees your Bus starts with confidence every single time.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Models covered: Kombi, Microbus, Deluxe, Panel Van, Single Cab, and Double Cab Pickup
• Compatibility Note: Specifically designed for Split Window (Splittie) dashboard configurations

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• OEM Reference Part Number: 211-905-811C
• Material: High-strength zinc alloy housing with internal brass and copper electrical contacts
• Included Components: Ignition switch body and two (2) matched keys
• Electrical Configuration: Standard spade-style terminals for factory-style wiring harness connection
• Voltage Compatibility: Suitable for original 6-volt systems or upgraded 12-volt conversions
• Weight: Approximately 0.3 lbs
• Finish: Natural metallic housing with durable key tumblers

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Wiring Terminals and Grounds

When replacing your ignition switch, it is the perfect time to inspect the female spade connectors on your vehicle''s wiring harness. Over time, these connectors can become loose or develop a layer of oxidation (green crust), which creates high resistance and heat. If the connectors feel loose when sliding them onto the new EMPI switch, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently crimp them for a tighter fit. Additionally, ensure your battery-to-chassis and transmission-to-chassis ground straps are clean and tight. A new switch can only do its job if the rest of the circuit provides a clear path for the current to reach the starter solenoid.

2. Use Graphite Lubricant for Long Life

To ensure your new ignition switch remains smooth for years to come, never use liquid oils or WD-40 inside the keyway. These "wet" lubricants attract dust and pocket lint, which eventually turns into a thick paste that can jam the tumblers. Instead, use a small puff of dry powdered graphite. Insert the key and cycle the lock several times to distribute the powder. This provides dry lubrication that reduces friction between the brass tumblers and the zinc housing without creating a sticky mess that could lead to mechanical failure down the road.

3. Verify the "Start" Circuit During 12V Conversions

If your 1955-1967 Bus has been converted from 6V to 12V, you may be using a 12V starter with a 12V solenoid. This switch is perfectly capable of handling both voltages, but you should always check the condition of the "Term 50" (the start signal wire). Because 12V systems can be more sensitive to voltage drops across old wiring, some owners choose to install a "Hard Start Relay" alongside a new switch. This setup allows the ignition switch to trigger a relay, which then sends high-amperage power directly from the battery to the starter, taking the load off the internal contacts of your new switch and ensuring an instant fire-up every time you turn the key.