Problems, Key ignition/light switch.

[tonygunton]

I have recently had the wooden dash panel off whilst I rearrange some wiring and replace some switches. I have discovered the centre of the cream plastic Lucas rotary light switch is live (negative) when turned on. The car is positive earth and the feeds to light and ignition on reverse of switch are negative. The metal body of the switch fixed to the metal switch panel is not effected and in contact with the positive earth panel. This is dangerous in as much as a small bunch of keys is live and on touching the dash metal support or when dash replaced the radio will lead to a short circuit. Is this right or has some insulation broken down? The switch and ignition key are both in excellent working order, save this earthing, so I do not really want to replace let alone the cost.

Tony Gunton.