Ignition switch/ locked steering column
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 496
Likes: 153
From: San Francisco Bay Area
Ignition switch/ locked steering column
Hi guys,
Have searched the archives but still not clear on the answer. Patient is a 72 with automatic and tilt steering. The cable from the trans lever to the column disabled years ago and the lever in the lower column is always in the up position. Running some errands and got back in and can’t twist the ignition key. Have wiggled the steering wheel, have rocked car in gear and still can’t get to to twist. I can take the key in and out, but no joy on twist. Me thinks/ hope just a replacement ignition switch/tumbler would solve the problem. Front wheels are locked from turning as well. Thoughts?
Many thanks
Have searched the archives but still not clear on the answer. Patient is a 72 with automatic and tilt steering. The cable from the trans lever to the column disabled years ago and the lever in the lower column is always in the up position. Running some errands and got back in and can’t twist the ignition key. Have wiggled the steering wheel, have rocked car in gear and still can’t get to to twist. I can take the key in and out, but no joy on twist. Me thinks/ hope just a replacement ignition switch/tumbler would solve the problem. Front wheels are locked from turning as well. Thoughts?
Many thanks
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 3,232
Likes: 1,232
From: PHX AZ
bound up
I agree....you may have to lean on the wheel a bit (coz the engine is off) and rotate the cylinder at the same time....of course this requires growing an extra arm!
Best of luck!
Unkahal
Last edited by L-46man; Jul 27, 2021 at 06:52 PM.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 496
Likes: 153
From: San Francisco Bay Area
Guys thank you all for your help. It ultimately required a partial column dis assembly and repair in situ as AAA said they could not tow the car. !!!??? As you all surmised, ultimately the switch/tumbler was jammed very tightly against what ever that steel disc is called inside the column. It required almost total disassembly, but upon removing the c clip holding the highly sprung disc, it still remained jammed. Some strategic persuasion with large screwdriver and hammer allowed it to pop free. Upon removal, I inserted key and the car started immediately. I didn’t bother going further as it was clear at that point the switch/tumbler was fully functional. Instead I chose to grind the disc down so that it will not make any contact with the switch/ tumbler, and as such I will not ever have to consider this situation again in the future. Most might consider this a Bubba mod, but it suits me and I am OK that the wheels will no longer be locked with key removed. Thanks again guys for your help and consideration.
