Ignition switch issue
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Ignition switch issue
On my 1976, sometimes when turning the key to the crank position nothing happens. By wiggling the key/cylinder (the key cylinder is loose in column), I sometimes can get it to turn over. I have a new battery and had the starter checked. I have disassembled the column to get the lock out but it doesn't look bad, fits loose. This is a random event but seems to be happening more often. Where do I go from here?
Thanks
Mike
Thanks
Mike
Terrorizing Orange Cones
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,572
Likes: 17
From: Northern CO
Do a search for Jim Shea's papers on C3 steering columns. Std or T/T are covered and IIRC, he has them ID'd to be specific for which one you may have.
Sounds like the gear that the rear of lock cylinder engages or sector or the steel rod attached that connects the actual ignition switch (mounted lower on the column) may be where your issue lies. May be worn, bent, etc to cause random connects.
Jim is a CF member and former GM engineer who has gone the extra mile to develop these papers to help us out in our time of need.
He is generally available to help in case you have a specific problem the papers can't get you through.
Check it out.
Sounds like the gear that the rear of lock cylinder engages or sector or the steel rod attached that connects the actual ignition switch (mounted lower on the column) may be where your issue lies. May be worn, bent, etc to cause random connects.
Jim is a CF member and former GM engineer who has gone the extra mile to develop these papers to help us out in our time of need.
He is generally available to help in case you have a specific problem the papers can't get you through.
Check it out.
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
I have printed most of Jim's paper, that's how I got this far. Looking at the gear though the lock cylinder looks good, teeth are not deformed and are engaged. My plan is to remove the column and check out the ignition switch with the help of Jim's paper.
Mike
Mike
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 111
From: Saginaw Michigan
Dropping or removing the steering column sounds like the best approach. First disconnect the battery. Then follow instructions as to dropping or removing the steering column. (Being sure to not allow the column to just "hang" under the dash by the lower end of the column to dash attachment.)
A lot of my analysis depends upon things operating correctly in the recent past and the fact that Bubba wasn't in there and actually screwed things up (missing parts, parts installed incorrectly, loose parts floating around inside the column, etc.).
You should be able to feel a direct link between your ignition key and the rod that runs down the top of the steering column to the ignition switch. If there is slop, you might have a worn out plastic sector gear.
Or you might have a worn out ignition lock cylinder. You will have to diagnose where you are finding the slop.
Another thing could be that the ignition switch needs adjustment or is worn out. I have very specific information as to how to adjust the ignition switch (new switch or old) at www.corvettefaq.com
Good luck,
Jim
A lot of my analysis depends upon things operating correctly in the recent past and the fact that Bubba wasn't in there and actually screwed things up (missing parts, parts installed incorrectly, loose parts floating around inside the column, etc.).
You should be able to feel a direct link between your ignition key and the rod that runs down the top of the steering column to the ignition switch. If there is slop, you might have a worn out plastic sector gear.
Or you might have a worn out ignition lock cylinder. You will have to diagnose where you are finding the slop.
Another thing could be that the ignition switch needs adjustment or is worn out. I have very specific information as to how to adjust the ignition switch (new switch or old) at www.corvettefaq.com
Good luck,
Jim
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
I spent the morning taking out the column per the instructions. Is there a way to verify that the switch is good? I would hate to adjust a bad switch. And is it possible to check it out before reinstalling the column, like connecting the wirng harnesses?
Mike
Mike
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 76
Likes: 0
From: Crisfield Maryland
You could check with an ohmmeter from red and turn the switch to see if resistance goes to 0 for appropriate wires. That's what I did (mine is 1977). Make sure metal connectors are fully inserted into harness, verify rod is pushing when key turns, etc.
For the loose cylinder... instead of buying an expensive column.. you could get a 70s chevy column from another vehicle but you'd have to weld on the bracket with 2 bolts that holds up column.
For the loose cylinder... instead of buying an expensive column.. you could get a 70s chevy column from another vehicle but you'd have to weld on the bracket with 2 bolts that holds up column.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 111
From: Saginaw Michigan
Unless you really know how to cut and weld I would not even attempt to cobble a steering column from another vehicle into a Corvette. The Corvette steering column is pretty unique in several areas and I think you will have more headaches than your really want.
Fixing your current column with a new lock cylinder or a new ignition switch is far, far, easier than trying to cobble another column into your 1976.
BTW, you haven't mentioned if you have a standard (non-adjustable) or a tilt & telescoping steering column.
Jim
Fixing your current column with a new lock cylinder or a new ignition switch is far, far, easier than trying to cobble another column into your 1976.
BTW, you haven't mentioned if you have a standard (non-adjustable) or a tilt & telescoping steering column.
Jim
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Jim
Well, mission accomplished. I bought a new ignition switch today and installed it according the your instruction. The key cylinder is still a little sloppy but it doesn't effect the push rod to the switch. That part of the linkage seems ok. This was the biggest job I have tackled to date, quite satisfying. Thanks to all.
Mike
Well, mission accomplished. I bought a new ignition switch today and installed it according the your instruction. The key cylinder is still a little sloppy but it doesn't effect the push rod to the switch. That part of the linkage seems ok. This was the biggest job I have tackled to date, quite satisfying. Thanks to all.
Mike
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