Bought a new lock for the ignition switch on my 66 because the switch only turns to the right and starts the car without the key. So when I went to change the lock, I noticed that I have the wrong switch. Look at the thing. Anyone have any idea where it came from?


I tried to use a paper clip to remove the lock but that didn't work. Nothing gives when I push on it. This may be because I don't have the proper key to turn it to the left. So how do I get the switch out?


Obviously, I need to buy a new switch so I went online at Paragon Corvette and the description for the switch said 'replacement style'. I plan to have my car judged in the fall and want to buy the right switch. Can anyone recommend where to buy one or is the one at Paragon the one I need?


Thanks in advance for the help!

 

You need to get the correct GM and DELCO part numbers and then watch Ebay for one. They come up every now and then. Correct part numbers are in the archives..........I do not know them for memory for the 1966 model. Perhaps one of our CF regulars will post them up for you.

Pete Lindahl in New Mexico probably has one. PM me if you need his contact information.

NOS originals probably cost $150-200. But non-GM/DELCO made in USA ones are considerably cheaper. Last few digits of part number are cast in the originals. Also a "DR" (Delco-Remy) on the back side. Look for it.

Larry

EDIT: There are a couple of switches on Ebay right now. I know the one #1116686 is for 1967 cars, but they also show it for 1966. I don't think this is correct..........unless for a VERY LATE 1966 car. I BELIEVE the number you want is #1116673, but I am not absolutely sure without further checking. A used #673 is for sale, but looks a bit tired/old. But you can see all the top/back/side views for your info.

 

I'm sure you know what the 66 looked like:




To remove the lock, you'll have to have the key that allows it to turn to accessory, then push in the button in the hole with a paper clip and turn a little further. If you can't even turn to accessory, the release hole won't help.

 

The correct ignition switch for '66 is the 1116673 and working properly requires that the key be "pushed in" before the key can be turned to acc and also note with this switch the key can only be removed when in the OFF position. Yes this is judged at NCRS which is how I found out I had the wrong (service replacement) switch. I found an NOS 673 switch on eBay and it works perfectly, but to accomplish this I also needed to get correct (original) keys. Pete Lindahl in Los Alamos NM is The Man for these switches and keys. I sent him my switch and he set me up with two complete sets of original keys. Now everything works like it should (as is spelled out in the Owner's Manual for 1966). At a recent judging meet they did check my switches including the push-turn-to-ACC function and the can't-remove-key-unless-off function.

 

Interesting, I've owned 65's and 66's for over 50 years and I've never had one that you had to push in on the key to turn to accessory. In fact I've never had one with any flex inside the lock that would allow it to be pushed in any farther.

 

Reese, as others have mentioned, the ignition switch (lock) you have currently appears to be the '63-'64 lock. You will need to get the switch into the ACC position in order to insert the "pin" - to release the lock. If you know a locksmith they can pick the lock quite easily to enable you to get it to the ACC position.

My first car was a '62 impala and I quickly learned that simply wiggling the key and turning it, would unlock the switch, with or without a key, any GM key that fit the lock.

You may be able to remove the bezel and slide the switch out the back of the cluster. Just remove the electrical connections and take the switch to a locksmith to remove the lock from the switch.

Good luck... GUSTO

 

From the 1966 GM New Products information book.

 

Thanks for all the help!


To drill out the old lock, do I just drill where the tinny hole is?



If I find an NOS or good working ignition switch, I can just install the new lock that I bought from Paragon and I'll be good to go, right?

 

Do you know if it is a function of the lock or the switch that requires the key to be pushed in?

 

 

There were two 66 's at the cruise in today and I had them try their switch. one you had to push in to go to the accessories, the other did not. I guess it's a function of the wear of the switch and the type of switch that's been installed over the years.

 

You can't just drill through the hole. It has to be lined up by going to accessory and then the hole lines up with the little push button. Your first choice is going to have to be to get it to accessory somehow .

 

I got the switch drilled out and the lock pulled by a locksmith today. Now I just have to buy an NOS switch and hope that the lock I bought at Paragon fits it.

 

Is the push in a function on the switch or the lock?