Need a console lamp switch for a Norge built Wards machine

[rickr]

Got a junkyard queen from Kenny a couple weeks ago. Am doing a restoration on this machine from. It is a Montgomery Wards TOL by Norge, built in 1969. It has the rapid advance timer, and it is a kind of a rare, cool looking machine. I call it the "Monkey Norge", and Kenny calls it the "Ugly Wards". At any rate, I happy to have it, and glad that Kenny hauled it out of the junkyard. I have it torn down right now, but it is going back together soon. The only part that I cannot seem to find, is the console light switch. It is of the type that you hold the push button in a second or two, then release it to light the fluorescent light. I cannot seem to find one around here. This machine sat out for many years, and the original switch rusted away to nothing. The only thing left is the wires, and the push part of the switch. Does anyone know where I can locate one of these switches? My 56 Whirlpool uses the same type switch, so I know that it was not just Norge that used them. There are four wires that go to the switch, btw.

This is the only pixs I have of the machine right now, and Kenny took this one.

 

[rickr]

Wiring diagram

This shows the lamp ciruit, and the switch.

 

[retro-man]

I think you might be able to find this switch or one real close to it at home depot. I was impressed with the amount of switches and different types that they had in stock. Might give them a try.If not there then my next place to look would be an electrical supply house. Good luck on your rebuild.
Jon

 

[kenmoreguy64]

Do you have a part number Rick?

Believe it or not, I have found some long-obsolete WP stuff on ebay, and there is an obsolete parts search system out there that Armstrong has put together. It requires some work on the part of sellers, but it may be an option.

Let me know if you like, and I'll search my sources for you.

G

 

[rickr]

Thanks guys, will check out a parts catalog or two. I do not have any part numbers, as the part itself is rusted to nothing. Not even the bakelite remains. Just wires with the contacts, and the pushbutton and bracket of the switch.

 

[golittlesport]

Very cool looking machine. I can't wait to see the finished product. You do such amazing restoration work, Rick. Is this machine a solid tub? Good luck on finding that switch!

 

[washerlover]

I Heart Monkey Norge

Beeyoutiful machine! I'm a huge Monkey Norge fan, I've to a '64 Norge set and a '72 Wards Signature TOL set. Love 'em to death! Hope to see pics of your restored machine. Good luck!

 

[rickr]

Yay for Monkey Norge's!! <:

Thanks guys!! I found a switch that will work today, at the appliance parts place that I always purchase my parts from. It is a used switch, but it is ok, and will work for my application. The machine should go back together this weekend. Also purchased a new belt, fill valve, and a new fill flume for a more modern GE machine. (The original Norge replacement is NLA)The original fill flume was made from hard plastic, and was broken on this machine. I think that the broken fill flume was the reason this machine was junked years ago.
Will have some pixs at a later time.

 

[gansky1]

Very cool, Rick. I'm glad someone saved this neat washer!

 

[goatfarmer]

Almost done? That's amazing, another great job, Rick!