What's the trick? (headlight switch madness)

[Screws]

Hi Folks,

Just reassembled my '65 after a full rewire, and replaced the headlight switch. I found the switch in one place and the knob and stem (1 piece) in another- both apparently period correct new. The two pieces are not marrying up- the stem fits (triangle stem-triangle hole) but it doesn't lock in. I don't want to force it.... and the button on the side of the switch that seems to have something to do with it isn't releasing or catching anything (the stem remains not locked in). I'm throwing my hands up and asking for some wisdom on this one.

Thanks in advance. The fact that this forum exists is very cool, and appreciated.

-Screws
Baltimore, MD

[suville]

It could be the "detent" area or groove in the shaft isnt in the correct relation to the release pin. see if you can insert a stiff piece of wire (coat hanger into the switch till you feel the release pin mark the wire and compare to the shaft . dont know of any other way to check and I have run into this my self on other switches and knobs if you had an old original to compare to that would be a plus.

[Screws]

Great idea. Thanks very much... I am/was truly out of ideas... I'll post back with the results once this g-d snow stops!

-Screws