Electrical: Where can I get repair parts for my overdrive solenoid?

[Ted Preston]

I have several non-functional overdrive solenoids. All have failed in the same way: the contact set that holds the plunger open fails and the end melts off, losing contact.

I repaired one by soldering a new contact onto the end of the spring steel contact holder. It worked well for several months, but the solder eventually let loose.

I'd like to replace those contacts and make my spare solenoids useable, but I've been unable to find a source for rebuild parts. Can someone point me to a supplier, please?

[BobPalma]

No guarantees as to availability, Ted, but try Randy Rundle at Fifth Avenue Antique Auto Parts in Clay Center KS.

Randy advertises all the time in Turning Wheels, and has extensive experience in those units. If he doesn't have what you need, I can't think of anyone more qualified to suggest where you might find it. BP

[RadioRoy]

Let us know if you find replacement contacts, please. I have used stainless steel screw heads and brass screw heads, and neither of them last long. The original contacts are tungsten and I suspect the arms are phosphor-bronze, but do not know for sure.

[bezhawk]

I replaced them before using Bell Telephone surplus switching equipment.

[RadioRoy]

Bez, how did you take the contacts off the old arms and put them on the ones in the Studebaker solenoid? Or did you fashion a new complete arm by bending the bell equipment arm, drilling it, and putting that into the solenoid?

[bezhawk]

I used the whole arm. Phosphor bronze also, I believe, and riveted to the old remnants of the originals

[tbirdtbird]

how about contact replacements for motor contactors from McMaster Carr

https://www.mcmaster.com

Contact Replacement Kits

http://www.mcmaster.com/?m=true#=n5kd8n

[RadioRoy]

I used the whole arm. Phosphor bronze also, I believe, and riveted to the old remnants of the originals

That makes sense. Thanks.