I have an older Hampton Bay ceiling fan (48") with a slide switch for changing direction. The switch position is presently set for CW and when I move the slide switch to the other direction, the fan stops and will not run until I move the switch to the original position. The other fans in my home are the same make and model and reverse when the switch is moved. Date code is 0196; SKU: 238-965; Vendor: 11289; S/N 019073F.

I suspect the switch, but cannot locate one - could you enlighten me as to where I purchase a repair switch or do I just chuck the fan and buy a new one?

Sounds like a switch or a loose connection at the switch. Very standard switch, available from the manufacturer, CeilingFanParts.com Home (http://www.ceilingfanparts.com), and most hardware stores.

Ceiling Fan Parts - How to choose the right parts for your ceiling fan (http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/ceiling-fan-parts.php)