bad coupe ignition switch

[richmccolman]

Hi all,
(First off, what's the deal with search function on Yahoo groups? Is there any now? I recall that there was a reasonably decent search function 2 or 3 years ago, but then the interface was changed, and I can't figure out how to do any sort of text-based search. Is it just me being a blockhead?)
The ignition switch on my 600 coupe stopped working properly yesterday. I can't get the car to start, and the 12v power in the car (ON & ACC) is on or off at the wrong points when turning the key. In fact, my installed voltage gauge is reading 12v when the key is in the OFF position! (I'm assuming that the wafer, or whatever, inside the switch that makes contact to the various circuits at different points during key rotation has at least partially broken loose.)
What have others of you done if/when you've encountered this situation? (I'm assuming that new coupe ignition switches are no longer available.)
Currently, I'm considering:
a) bypassing the electrical portion of the switch and hooking up another switch or switches to duplicate the electrical functions of the stock switch, or
b) buy a used ignition switch assembly, or
c) attempt to fix the electrical guts inside the fouled up key switch assembly (if it's even possible).
There are pluses and minuses to all of these solutions. 'C' (fixing the existing switch) seems problematic at best in terms of success. 'B' (getting a used switch) seems like only a temporary solution, as I imagine it may only be a matter of time before the used switch breaks as well. 'A' seems like the most sure-fire solution, functionally, though it will compromise the "original" look of the car's interior.
What do you guys think is the best, most workable, solution?
Thanks,
Richard McColman

[Bill]

Try pushing on the Bakelite plate on the back and turn the switch if it works there in lies your
problem.  Try pushing in around on the edges to get it to stay.
Bill

[richmccolman]

Thanks, Bill -- I'll check that.
(I wonder whether a loose bakelite plate could cause car circuits to be ON with the key in the OFF position. Regardless, I'll keep my fingers crossed that that's the issue, since it's comparatively easy to fix that.)
Richard

[richmccolman]

That was definitely it, Bill -- the Bakelite plate is coming out the back of the switch.
Thanks!
Richard