reassembling a light switch

[pooksahib]

Hi. The light in my garage is controlled by a switch on opposite walls and the rocker on one of them has become immoveable.

I know the answer is to fit a new one but, out of curiosity, how does the mechanism work? When I took it apart, a small piece (circled) fell out and I can't fathom where and how it fits.

Thank you.

 

[EFLImpudence]

The end of the little piece goes in between the two contacts at the bottom and
the cross-piece goes in the slot.
The button on the actual switch makes it rock up and down to connect with one of the two contacts while
maintaining contact with the top contact at the cross-piece.
Make sure it doesn't move when replacing the white parts.

A bit of lubrication on the white button will help.

Does that make sense?

Congratulations for looking.

 

[pooksahib]

Perfect sense - thanks so much for your time. After dropping the little piece in and reassembling, the rocker was moving freely but, alas, doesn't work when re-wired. It's still only the other switch that can put the light on and off. Have you any thoughts on why before I buy a new faceplate?

I take it the little piece should face the way it does in my pic?

 

[Taylortwocities]

The little loose piece should go in between the two contacts in the black part. But those 1G 2way switches are only £1-2 each to buy new. Better to get a new one IMO.

 

[EFLImpudence]

I take it the little piece should face the way it does in my pic?

No, the other way.

You will see on it a worn line in the picture which rests on the pivot in the black part.

 

[pooksahib]

Aha... Lovely, that's my curiosity satisfied. The switch works again although the 'upflick' is perhaps not as solid as the 'downflick'. I'll leave it for now but should it stiffen up again I'll just get a new one.

My grateful thanks to you both.

 

[kai]

The MK ones are the best, if it sticks again, just get an MK one for a pound or two at your B&Q or Screwfix.