M38 Light switch and levers
Posted: Wed Apr 29, 2020 11:08 pm
I am working on a late 1952 M38. I’m a little confused about the light switch.
It is the latest generation, #3 on one of Wes'es explanation photo, oblong with one connector on the back.
To begin with, I misplaced my 3 light switch levers. I ordered replacements.
2 out of the 3 replacements looked a bit smaller, and had a hex-like hole in the back, instead of the elongated “slots” with the rounded ends that my switch requires.
Upon removing the light switch assembly, I noticed that there were two wires that had the Packard ends. I would venture to guess that the light switch may be aftermarket, or updated.
In looking at what is offered for sale, I notice minute differences in these switches. Some have regular slotted screws on the levers, others have Phillips screws.
Rather than buying a new light switch, I will adapt the two Packard wires to Douglas connectors.
So what are the standard light switch lever-to-switch configurations, and how do I specify the correct ones. Do they have different names?
Finally, so I don’t “screw” up on my next trip to the hardware store, what are the screw sizes for (1) mounting the switch to the dash, and (2) mounting the levers to the switch.
Thank you!
It is the latest generation, #3 on one of Wes'es explanation photo, oblong with one connector on the back.
To begin with, I misplaced my 3 light switch levers. I ordered replacements.
2 out of the 3 replacements looked a bit smaller, and had a hex-like hole in the back, instead of the elongated “slots” with the rounded ends that my switch requires.
Upon removing the light switch assembly, I noticed that there were two wires that had the Packard ends. I would venture to guess that the light switch may be aftermarket, or updated.
In looking at what is offered for sale, I notice minute differences in these switches. Some have regular slotted screws on the levers, others have Phillips screws.
Rather than buying a new light switch, I will adapt the two Packard wires to Douglas connectors.
So what are the standard light switch lever-to-switch configurations, and how do I specify the correct ones. Do they have different names?
Finally, so I don’t “screw” up on my next trip to the hardware store, what are the screw sizes for (1) mounting the switch to the dash, and (2) mounting the levers to the switch.
Thank you!

