that is not a resistor, it is a diode, and it needs to be in the correct direction (and wired correctly with the wires) or you will get all sorts of switch issues.

If it's a micro-switch like this.

Micro-Switch-Diode-Wiring.gif

I had this the other week with my shoot again light on T2, I'm not a wizard at electronics but I had the same issues. I had mounted the diode backwards, doh! (So the light sort of worked but was very weak and on when it shouldn't be) Like you I was afraid the constant soldering etc would cause it to fail as it was getting very hot but after swapping it over but it is still going strong so I'd imagine they can get quite hot before they fail, just don't do it for long periods.

"looks like that" meaning, that is the type of switch, or "looks like that" meaning that is how you have wired, with the band on the diode on the correct side reactive to the wires and the switch? it needs to be exactly has shown.

Can you destroy a diode with heat, yes, but hard to do, but if you are new to this and depending on the type of soldering iron you are using, it is possible. Most DMMs have a diode check feature you can use. But easy enough to replace. Radio Shack does carry them (at bout 5 times what they should cost), most of the parts vendors also carry them.

Assuming it worked before and still not working, post a photo, maybe there is something else going on we can spot for you.

Is it wired exactly as shown on the switch? You likely have the diode backwards or the wires reversed.

Note the "NC", "NO" and "COM" on the switch. These letters will be embossed on your new switch. The banded side of the diode must go to the "COM" lug, green to "NO" and the unbanded side of the diode and the white wire go to "NC".

Glad you got it resolved. Probably won't be the last time you do that either, but now you know what to look for.