stuck ignition

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May 6, 2014 | 12:40 PM

ibflyer

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stuck ignition

Looking for a little help. I have had my car, 1973 coupe, L82, for 5 months and been restoring. Has been on jacks for 4 months while doing new interior and paint. Now getting back together, ( what a nightmare finding where everything goes) and tried finally to get started last night. Key is in lock position and 4 sp is locked in reverse. Can not budge key or shifter. New carpet put in, could there be interference with the clutch? Feels like it goes to the floor. Steering wheel is also locked. Pulling light switch does give indicator lights so I know I did not hook battery up incorrectly.

May 6, 2014 | 12:54 PM

doorgunner

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From: New Or-leens Loo-z-anna

Did you try turning the steering wheel about an inch to the left and right rapidly while trying to turn the key to the Run position?

May 6, 2014 | 12:56 PM

Mike Ward

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Sure you've got the right key?

May 6, 2014 | 01:18 PM

ibflyer

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Ward

Sure you've got the right key?

Same key as before. Did "jiggle" the wheel as I recall other cars this has worked on, but did not try the what sounds to be more aggressive, turning. Will do tonight. Thanks for the help.

May 6, 2014 | 01:19 PM

ibflyer

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Quote:

Originally Posted by doorgunner

Did you try turning the steering wheel about an inch to the left and right rapidly while trying to turn the key to the Run position?

Haven't tried to turn it that far. Is there a switch on the clutch pedal that tells the ignition system that clutch is in?

May 6, 2014 | 01:57 PM

Texas70

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From: Alice Texas

Could the lock out cable be out of whack?

It goes from the transmission to the lock out arm inside the engine compartment at the bottom of the steering column. Not sure why the transmission would be stuck in reverse unless the cable is connected to the incorrect lug.

Just something else to look at if you have done anything under the car.

May 6, 2014 | 02:22 PM

Peterbuilt

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From: mount holly NC

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See if the cable is letting the lever (on the steering column)go all the way up.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...lfunction.html

May 7, 2014 | 01:53 AM

Ralphbf

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From: Woodland California

Quote:

Originally Posted by petes74ttop

See if the cable is letting the lever (on the steering column)go all the way up.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...lfunction.html

This has worked for me.

Put the key in the ignition tap it kind of firm to drive it deeper into the switch and try to turn it.
I was told to do this by a lock smith friend of mine.,

Ralph

By the way, I never had any more trouble with the switch.