Problem with ignition switch removal
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 33
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Problem with ignition switch removal
Happy New Year to All
I am restoring a 1978 and have the steering column apart to replace the turn signal switch and the cruise switch handle. I am trying to remove the ignition switch and am following Jim Sheas directions by pressing in on the release in the center of the bolt, but I can't get it to budge. Any help would be apprciated
MGK
I am restoring a 1978 and have the steering column apart to replace the turn signal switch and the cruise switch handle. I am trying to remove the ignition switch and am following Jim Sheas directions by pressing in on the release in the center of the bolt, but I can't get it to budge. Any help would be apprciated
MGK
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 6,422
Likes: 591
From: McHenry Illinois
There should be a small tab about 1/4" high in a slot near the left end of the cylinder. Use a small flat blade screwdriver to press it in then pull the lock cylinder out. On some it helps to pull the cylinder out a little then press the tab, then pull the cylinder out.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,001
Likes: 113
From: Saginaw Michigan
BTW, the ignition switch is located down under the dash, attached to the top of the steering column jacket. The problem part you are talking about is the ignition lock cylinder. That is where you insert your ignition key.
You are trying to reach through a slot in the turn signal switch housing so that you can depress the small metal tab that is part of the lock cylinder.
I don't know if this picture is correct or not. In either case, try and measure from the leading edge of the lock cylinder boss back 1 3/4 inches. That is where the rectangular slot is located for you to reach through the slot to depress the metal tab.
Sometimes the slot may have a very thing die cast "skin" covering the slot. You should easily be able to break through the skin to reach the tab.
Some people have reported that you should keep your screwdriver blade to the right edge of the slot in the housing.
Jim
You are trying to reach through a slot in the turn signal switch housing so that you can depress the small metal tab that is part of the lock cylinder.
I don't know if this picture is correct or not. In either case, try and measure from the leading edge of the lock cylinder boss back 1 3/4 inches. That is where the rectangular slot is located for you to reach through the slot to depress the metal tab.
Sometimes the slot may have a very thing die cast "skin" covering the slot. You should easily be able to break through the skin to reach the tab.
Some people have reported that you should keep your screwdriver blade to the right edge of the slot in the housing.
Jim
Last edited by Jim Shea; Jan 1, 2013 at 07:23 PM.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 33
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Jim
I tried for three hours following your direction to separate the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder appears to be very sloppy / worn and I am thinking this may be my problem. The turn signal switch housing has been loosened up and moved out of the way. I am trying to remove the housing that the ignition cylinder is housed in to get access to install the cruise/ turn signal lever that is broken. I assume I need to remove the ignition cylinder to remove the housing / shroud. What is the best way to remove the ignition cylinder housing / shroud?
I tried for three hours following your direction to separate the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder appears to be very sloppy / worn and I am thinking this may be my problem. The turn signal switch housing has been loosened up and moved out of the way. I am trying to remove the housing that the ignition cylinder is housed in to get access to install the cruise/ turn signal lever that is broken. I assume I need to remove the ignition cylinder to remove the housing / shroud. What is the best way to remove the ignition cylinder housing / shroud?
Guess the fourth hour went better than the first three. 
