This is why I only sell KOSTAL switches on my Samba Ad.  They are the OEM
Switch

The Chinese Switches (such as Meyle and others) have a short life span.

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=1687914

Jim Thompson
84 GL 1.9 "Gloria"
84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
Full Timing From March 1999 To January 2012
oldvolkshome@gmail.com
http://www.oldvolkshome.com
Find me on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jim-Thompson/100000710343835
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On Tue, May 12, 2015 at 3:50 PM, Ed McLean <email99@bellsouth.net> wrote:

> Over the last year I have had 3 ignition/starter switch (111 905 865L)
> failures after not having but 3 failures in the preceding 22 years, all
> with the same Vanagon.
>
> Has the quality of these electrical switches declined?  They look just
> like they always have.
>
> I haven't changed the load on the switch with recent modifications or
> component replacements except for the starter so I don't think they are
> being overloaded.  Does the gear drive TDI Jetta Bosch starter draw more
> current for solenoid activation than the original late Vanagon starter?
>
> Maybe I have just gotten a bad batch of switches?
>
> Is there a particular brand of switches to steer clear of or is there a
> brand that is superior to others?  One of these that failed was Meyle
> brand and another was a premium priced one from Worldpac.  Does anyone
> have any experience with NAPA's Altrom brand"
>
> Thanks for any and all comments.
>
> Ed
>