PUSH THE BUTTON (or what to do with the spare switch space)

[johnbenk]

Hi

I recently took a Honda s 2000 for a test drive and the only thing that impressed me was THE BIG RED START BUTTON that you had to press to "fire up" the engine with.

So I had an idea? What would it feel like to "press the button" to "fire up" a LOTUS ELAN using this method. By chance I was on E-bay and came across a Company that sells a complete Kit for a Honda Start Button (see attached)

The kit comes complete with the relay and all the wiring and the only place I could think of where to fit it is in the blanking plate on the dash
for the two switches.

I made a blanking plate for the Start Button and removed the switches and the carrier plate behind. It was then a simple matter of removing the lower steering wheel shroud to expose the start switch and wiring and then splice into the start wire.

After fitting the BIG RED BUTTON it was time to "FIRE UP" the engine.

WOW I am a sad old sod but the pleasure in starting the car by this method was pure magic and every time I have to start the engine it gives me a great feeling
The only down side is you dont get to see the
button as it is hidden by the steering wheel.

[Monty]

Costas has one fitted there`s a picture under the shark thread under projects.

[Doug]

Nice, John

picture please

[Costas]

So I had an idea? What would it feel like to "press the button" to "fire up" a LOTUS Elan using this method

You could experience how it feels and sounds if you Downloaded this small video:
http://www.sh4rk.gr/Sh4rk10.mpg

Cheers!

Costas

[Houdini]

These have been very popular for Miatas (MX-5's), etc. for some time. A kit that should work in the Elan uses the lighter for mounting the switch so you don't need to drill holes or make another mount. Just an idea if someone is interested. It's also available in a lighted version and different colors. See the link below for details.

http://ravenwingperformance.net/Lighting_Electrical/Ignited_Starter-Button-Kit.html

[Costas]

I ve tried the lighter position, but its not a good place to be very far and low, and I NEED the lighter. I also tried in the digital watch position but its too high and I also tried on the opposite side of the steering wheel but it messed me up to use right hand for keys and left for start engine. The position I have it now wasnt picked ramdomly but after serious consideration, even at first attempt the hand goes almost mechanically-automatically from the keys to the start button.


Costas

[Don.Hasi]

Engine-Start-buttons rulez

Hi John

could please tell me the diameter of the button himself and of the ring, please?

THX in advance

[johnbenk]

Hi Don


The overall length is 85mm. Diam 35mm it is 3mm Larger than the cigar
lighters hole.
Cheers

JBK