Power Top Switch Repairs Camaro

[169indy]

You can service your Camaro (& Others) Power Top Switch.

Once removed from the vehicle: Depress the four retainers clips by pressing inward on the tang and pull clip using small nose needle nose pliers. The Switch will then be released from the zinc/chrome plated holder. The toggle blade style lever can be released by gently drifting out the rocker pin using a drift of similar diameter. Be careful the return springs (Coil style) will want to eject the switch/contact traveler plastic bushings across the room. Generally, the "UP" position will see the greatest load and AMPS resulting in plastic bushing working surface degradation. Clean up the face of the bushing leg with a file or xacto knife and soak- clean contacts with DeOxit or equal (LPS contact cleaner etc) Swap the bushings positions, example move the up and down locations, reverse assy and check using a VOM Ohm meter for continuity checks.

Note #1 If the Actual MOLDED copper contact are deformed, bent, burnt or otherwise beyond use the Switch is toast, these molded contact are not serviceable in my opinion.

[KevinW]

I agree with your statement the power top switches can be reconditioned back to operating condition. But the inside of yours look nothing like the original 69 switches I have.

Most times the brass contacts and rocker get tarnished and cleaning them gets the continuity back. Also the rocker can be bent over time and may need a little adjustment, as well as cleaning and lightly lubing the spring loaded plunger that moves the rocker.

One of the poor designs of this switch is the hinge point. The little side tabs can break off and render the switch non-op. I was able to drill a hole and insert a metal rod to provide a hinge point again. But then the spring loaded plunger does not work properly unless you shorten the spring the appropriate amount. It's a finicky thing, but can be done :)

[169indy]

This switch came out a LA RS Vert, could be a design change or later dealer service item. Not sure, delco is molded on the plastic. Good info still.