Key Ignition Switch Removal
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
From: Norfolk VA
Key Ignition Switch Removal
The key switch on my '73 has to be replaced because my key broke off in it, it's old... Problem is, I cant seem to get it out. There are two pins that lock it in place and I only seem to have access to one. I am at my wits end trying to get this thing out. Any advice/instruction would be greatly appreciated, pictures are even better! Thanks.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 135
Likes: 2
From: Waterbury CT.
I've never replaced an ignition key switch on a vette but I've done many on GM cars of the 70's. After you remove the retaining pin you have to press a detent pin on the cylinder to remove it. Many housing had poor castings back then, so you may have to punch out the thin metal covering over the detent pin. Look at your new switch to see where it will line up . Make sure you turn the ignition to the on position . The detent pin won't push in if the key is in the lock position. This is the best I can explain it without a picture.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 97
Likes: 0
go to www.corvettefaq.com--look under suspension and steering--two papers on this I believe by Jim Shea-----Good Luck
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 112
From: Saginaw Michigan
First of all here is a paper on getting the broken key bit out of the steering column lock cylinder.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...actionTool.pdf
Now do you have a standard (non-adjustable) column or a T&T? They are similar steering columns but just a bit different. Getting the entire lock cylinder out of the column head requires that you remove the steering wheel, steering hub, locking plate, and pulling the turn signal switch far enough out of the column head so that you can get at the retainer tab that locks it into the column.
Full instructions are available at the www.corvettefaq.com websight.
Jim
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...actionTool.pdf
Now do you have a standard (non-adjustable) column or a T&T? They are similar steering columns but just a bit different. Getting the entire lock cylinder out of the column head requires that you remove the steering wheel, steering hub, locking plate, and pulling the turn signal switch far enough out of the column head so that you can get at the retainer tab that locks it into the column.
Full instructions are available at the www.corvettefaq.com websight.
Jim
