Types of switch

Toggle/rocker switches

Lubricate the operating ‘fingers’ and the backs of the rocking contacts. Clean the contacts, but don’t lubricate. If the rocking contacts are asymmetrical, make a note of which way they fit.

Rotary switches

Clean and lubricate all rotating parts, including the contacts. Beware of escaping balls and springs when dismantling. They may be there to hold contacts together or create ‘detent’ positions.

Illuminated rocker switches

To change the bulb, you’ll sometimes need to pry the rocker off its pivots. Keep the switch on a flat surface, contacts down, so that the rocking contacts don’t fall out during the operation.