What is the best Ignition Switch?

[diddy0071]

okay, I have a 1997 Blazer, which I have had the SES light come on two weeks ago, I haven't had time to change the switch yet, and autozone doesnt have them in anyways. but my question is, what is the best ignition switch to buy? I mean, autozone has wells, and there are about 5 other different brands around, including the OEM. I would think the OEM isn't that good, because if it was, it wouldn't have gone out that quick now would it? but, any suggestions would be great. Also, I'm working on a Microsoft Word document or PDF of how to change the ignition switch, in conjunction with CCCD who provided pictures.

[wolfox]

Instead of going crazy with a switch - try to find out what code is lighting up your SES *first*. Do not drive any more than you *MUST* when that light comes on.

Get it scanned, there are people here that can help you with what the scan number means. POST THE NUMBER - not what the clerk behind the counter at Autozone tells you...

Then we will talk about the business of getting your Blazer up and running right again. Oh, and thanks for compiling the massive amounts of data we seem to have generated lately on ignition switches.

[diddy0071]

i'm getting p0785-Shift/timing solenoid, but i'm thinking it's going to be the ignition switch, since the gas gauge started going up and down today, and that seems to be one of the symptoms of the dreaded ignition switch.

also, I'm just trying to put together something that can help the next person looking for answers to their problems. I wanted to compile a user survey based on the brands of switches available, and see what is best. some people hate the wells ignition switch, and some love it. I just want people's feedback on it.

I also want to make the PDF or DOC of how to change out the ignition switch, to help out others with the same problem get their blazers up and running again. by looking at that PDF or DOC file, they can get a sense of what their problem is, and if fixing the switch will solve it, and instead of paying for someone to install it, look at the pictures and get a sense of how to do it themselves. Im just trying to help people out and save some money.

[wolfox]

It is indeed possible that it may be traced back to a faulty switch. However, the cheapskate in me says to get under the rig, drop the skids - re-seat after cleaning all of your wire harnesses - check for bad grounds, etc. Digging into your steering column before you did an under-body inspection is just a horrible oversight, IMO. But good luck - hope you indeed solve the trouble.