installing clutch switch in bracket-Help please

[frstevec]

I am in the middle of my first and only swap-- auto to manual 1995 525it so many have done and at age 75 I am paying my dues double.
I rounded three bolts on the diff flange and can't get the half shaft separated. I will use a saw zall tomorrow.
I have had quite a few surprises even after reading all the swap posts I could find.
I really appreciate the threads so many have posted to help folks like me.

My problem for your advice is mounting the clutch switch. I cracked the housing of the switch when I removed it last fall, so I am careful in reinstalling it
but I can't remember how it came out and can't get it into the bracket.
is there a trick or technique to mount it? It starts to go in but not far enough to catch.
Is the orientation of the switch sideways to the front of car with two prong housing on the right- towards the brake pedal?
It seems logical but do I just press until it snaps in or what?
Thanks.

Steve

[demetk]

Steve, Can you post a pic of the switch. Is it the plastic bodied switches with a red collar?

[frstevec]

no photo but it is as you describe - any ideas?
Thanks

[demetk]

If it's like this one

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41gEXfb-96L._SS500_.jpg

then that red collar needs to be pulled out to release the locking tabs so the switch can be inserted in place. The clutch pedal is then brought up so that the white plunger can push the collar in thereby locking the switch in place. You need to allow the clutch pedal to do the locking since the switch is self adjusting that way.

If you find that the switch doesn't close when you push the clutch pedal then the white plunger will need to be reset by pulling it out. It will click because there are teeth retaining it.

cheers

[frstevec]

Demet~ THANK YOU!

[demetk]

I need to revise my advice a bit. Once you insert the switch then you can manually push the red locking tab in. Then use the pedal to adjust the white plunger.