Okay I have
bottom two ports - no continuity when off so I feel confident the hot wire will go in one port—but which one?
Top half- both ports always continuity

 

600 emery paper to clean it?

Yes, I gave you the link in my post. The link covers how to. Actually

• 600 grit aluminum oxide sandpaper

Ron

 

Great, good cleaning info there.
Still seeking suggestions on switch wiring
Thanks everyone-this is generous help

 

Okay I have
bottom two ports - no continuity when off so I feel confident the hot wire will go in one port—but which one?
Top half- both ports always continuity

Use any section of the switch that creates the ON-OFF function?
Doesn't matter which wire to which terminal.

 

I was given, what appears to be, a pretty good used replacement (however amps rating is 12 vs original 16.)

If you are using 110V to power a 2.5HP motor then the current will be about 17A nominal. Your new 12A rated switch appears inadequate, unfortunately. Even the original switch should have had a higher rating.

 

One more question before I try the switch. In thread#12 I show the old switch—can I assume the heavier carboned side is the hot wire side of the switch? Thanks all

 

I don't see any cardboard?
If it is a DP switch, it shouldn't matter which side you are switching?

 

Carbon. - on the contacts
The new switch is SP - I may use it
At least to test the motor under no load