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yochanan · 11-09-2005, 09:24 PM

I'm replacing the 3 way switch that controls the 6 lights in one of the central overhead panels. Prior to 74, the switch was controlled by turning a whimpy little, black plastic shaft. The post-74 models had a steel shaft that accepted a knob over the top. I was sent the wrong switch. (later model 74 switch) I'm not very concerned about model year purity as much as I am durability. Does anyone have any advice on which switch would be better? The one with the black plastic shaft seems more prone to wear but if the one shipped is more durable, I'll make the change.

Thanks, John

dwightdi · 11-10-2005, 06:49 AM

My 77 has the metal shaft switch. It is still working after 28 years. Not bad.

**azflycaster** · 11-10-2005, 08:09 PM

I just replaced one of the switches on my 75. I quess 30 years might be old enough. The one I have has the metal shaft and the big round knob that screws on to it. The replacement switch did come with the plactic small knob, but that unscrewed and exposed the shaft. The Airstream part for mine was 50063 and I got it at Oasis RV in Tucson. It was 12 dollars.

yochanan · 11-10-2005, 09:52 PM

Thanks for the comments. I'm going to return it for the correct switch for the 72. I took the switch with the metal shaft to the trailer this evening and it looks as if the body of the switch is too big for the mount that's riveted into the light housing. I could bend some things to make it fit but I'm just going to go with the original equipment.

PizzaChop · 11-11-2005, 06:35 AM

After searching high and low, I finally found these at Lowe's for about $3.75. I had to extend the mount about half an inch to account for the shorter shaft on the switch (drill out two rivets and put a spacer in between) and it works just fine. The brass knob may be removable (and replaced with larger orig knob) but I'm afraid of breaking it so I'll just leave it as is.