It's switch-fixin time!

[GTalmageNOLA]

So, on my '81 XS1100 Special, I have a broken switch that controls the high/low beams, because of the way the switch is designed, I can't fix it then reinstall it (both inside and outside component of the switch are bigger than the slot it slides up and down on...). Anybody encounter this problem before? I could always just buy a new one, but it's $50 and I feel like I could probably fix it for $.50, just wanting to know if anybody had any super ideas to keep it stock... Thoughts? If I figure something out in the meantime, I'll let you know!

[haywardguy929]

You should be able to find a used one cheaper. Not sure how common they are but I bet you can find one.

[DGXSER]

The exterior part that you push on to switch it is a slide on piece. Meaning there is a stem inside there that is smaller than the opening, it is what broke.

Look at the bottom of the exterior piece and try to get that part pulled out. then you can try some adhesive to reattach it to the interior part.

[CatatonicBug]

There is a screw in the side of the thumb-switch on the outside of the housing. Just remove the screw and the piece you touch with your thumb will pull off the tab, allowing you to remove the guts from the inside. As long as the tab is not broken, the guts are relatively easy to fix. Be sure to check the solder points in there, and lube everything generously with dielectric grease when reassembling.