Late 91 police band question.

[37silverstreak]

Hey everyone,
My latest project is a late model 91 cathedral which is turning out to be a bit of a headache! Lot's of previous attempts at repair to undo along with an open shadowmeter coil to rewind mean a ton of fun for me.
I have a question. Is the old "Police" band on this model even used for anything anymore? This is why I'm asking. When checking over my set I found that the on/off switch no longer works (cheap part, it only lasted 80 yrs!!!!:lol. No problem, I have an 89 parts radio with the same switch! Well, I guess there is a problem! That switch no longer works also!!! So I read in the tech section here that this switch is often bad on this model! But, good news! There is a workable modern replacement switch available from Mouser electronics along with a wiring diagram! Hooray!!!!!! So, I order said switch and my worries are at an end, right? Well I recieved my switch and upon opening up the box I find out that this switch is made almost entirely out of PLASTIC!!!!!!!!!!! Shaft, Housing and all!
Now I know that this switch should work just fine and maybe it's just the purist in me talking, but I'm having a real problem convincing myself to install this plastic monstrosity into my 1930's brass and steel technology radio! I know, I know, after it's done it won't be seen, but I will know it's there!
My thought is if that police band doesn't do anything, I have a regular style on/off switch from an early model 71 chassis That i could use and just bypass that band all together.
As always, any input will be greatly appreciated- even if it means telling me that I'm nuts and to just go ahead and use that (yuck) plastic thing!!!! Thanks!
Kevin