Hello everyone, I'm a new rider and recently bought a 1995 Savage as my first bike. I'm hoping to gain some knowledge from all you fine folks on this beautiful little machine. My first question is about the ignition switch. The person I purchased the bike from lost the keys to the bike and installed a toggle switch, because it was garage kept and only used around his farm (yes a title was provided and transferred into my name with matching VIN numbers, so no it was not stolen) the 4 prong connector is still present. Were the ignition switch screwed into the frame it looks like it was broken so I'm not sure exactly how to reattach the switch in the same spot. Also, the toggle switch has a black wire running to it from the positive side of the battery (right side) joining with the red wire that went to the ignition switch. Does a new ignition switch need to be touching the frame in the same spot to get ground? Any insights on installing a new switch, would like to be able to ride to work and stores without giving free access to take it. Thanks for any help!

Thank you verslagen for the quick response, so I can remount the switch anywhere as long as it's touching the frame somewhwere to get ground? I unfortunately don't have the original ignition, the gas cap is rigged to work with any key.

Melissa wrote on 10/06/23 at 08:36:09:


No ground needed.

I have an extra ig switch and 1 with an extended pig tail, but no keys.

The switch assembly does not need to be grounded. There is no path to ground from any of the 4 pins within the harness.

You should be able to simply unplug the farmers switch, and reconnect your new switch. It is very (VERY) possible that the aftermarket switch doesn't work or isn't compatable with the S40. If you have a multimeter you can confirm continuity through the connector. If not, take Ruttly up on his offer.