Re: Joystick Controller for Mirrors and More

[Hal Taylor <taylor@domain.elided>]

Sid,

If the problem definately lies with the switch, you have a couple of
options.  One is that you can mail-order the part new (I'd try Paul Spreull
or Don Eriminas).  Another is that APE might have one (tI got one there,
but I'm not sure they were significantly cheaper than getting a new one).
Yet another option is that, depending on what's actually wrong with the
switch, you might be able to fix it.  If you're generally handy with this
kind of thing, you'll find that the switch comes apart fairly easily and
unlike the long joysticks from the '80's cars, is mechanically simple
inside.  I pulled an '80's switch apart and ended up with a jigsaw puzzle
of contacts and springs strewn about.  I pulled a '90's switch apart,
modified it internally, reassembled and presently have it in my car.

Oh - there's actually a fourth option: find a new or used '80's switch, and
I'll trade you the mirrors from my '86.  ;^)

But in all seriousness, if you'd like more specific assistance with any of
these options, I'm happy to help.

Hal Taylor
'86 spider veloce "Strega" (with '91 joystick)


Sid - Stafford Creative Inc wrote:

> My rearview mirror joystick controller (91 Spider) seems to have quit
> giving me joy. Anyone have a good idea where to find a new one?
> International says "it may be months..." Or maybe someone has experience
> fixing one with some Alfa Voodoo (cleaning, etc.)?
>
> In response to some posts concerning "why I own an Alfa" I've noticed
> something pretty funny in the 5 years I've owned my Spider. It goes
> something like this:
>
> Stanger: "Nice Alfa, I USED TO have an Alfa/Fiat/MG/Lancia/Triumph/etc.
> It was such a fun car, me and my buddies took it to such and such over
> spring break/summer vacation/etc. it was the MOST FUN ever... I'd get
> another one in a minute, but I have kids/etc."
>
> Me: "Get another one."
>
> Stranger: "You know, you're right. I'm going to check some out."
>
> This conversation has happened to me AT LEAST 10 times in 5 years. So
> why do I own an Alfa? Because ITSAFUN (my license plate) and as they say
> you only live once and you sure FEEL ALIVE when you drive an Alfa.
>
> Sid
> 91 Spider Veloce
> ITSAFUN

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