Sticky Ignition Switch
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 883
Likes: 2
From: Hilton Head SC
Re: Sticky Ignition Switch (VettePower)
I thnk I remember reading that some of the plastic in there is "allergic" to WD40. Check to papers on Corvette FAQ. I think this is covered. My guess is that it's down in the switch and not up where the key is anyhow.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 1,183
Likes: 2
From: Des Moines Iowa
Re: Sticky Ignition Switch (VettePower)
Agree that you probably won't get any improvement in you sticky ignition switch by spraying lubricant in the key tumbler area. Don't know about adivisability of using WD-40 for this purpose, I never use the stuff, but do have some silicone based spray lubricant I'd use...........have done so on other automobiles without problems. I use PB Blaster for the tuff rusted bolt/fastener situations.
I had a sticking ignition cylinder lock switch on my '81 when I got it, and 'fixed' by replacing with a new cylinder lock assembly. Lot's of small and plastic parts to remove to get at the thing when you have both tilt and telescopic steering along with turn indicators and cruise control wiring to deal with. You need a good assembly manual and removal/replacement instructions and a lot of patience , and a little luck that you don't break brittle plastic parts, to do this job.
I had a sticking ignition cylinder lock switch on my '81 when I got it, and 'fixed' by replacing with a new cylinder lock assembly. Lot's of small and plastic parts to remove to get at the thing when you have both tilt and telescopic steering along with turn indicators and cruise control wiring to deal with. You need a good assembly manual and removal/replacement instructions and a lot of patience , and a little luck that you don't break brittle plastic parts, to do this job.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 155
Likes: 0
From: Houston Texas
Re: Sticky Ignition Switch (VettePower)
I agree with John. In fact, replace the tumbler assembly ASAP.
My experience is that it will get stickier then suddenly, you can't turn the key at all. Hope you're in your driveway when that happens! Can't even tow it a few blocks if you can't turn the wheel.
Replacement is kind of a hassle, but cost only about $20 for the new key assembly and available and in stock at most parts stores.
My experience is that it will get stickier then suddenly, you can't turn the key at all. Hope you're in your driveway when that happens! Can't even tow it a few blocks if you can't turn the wheel.
Replacement is kind of a hassle, but cost only about $20 for the new key assembly and available and in stock at most parts stores.
1st Gear
Joined: Aug 2021
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
This is an old thread I know, but my switch was 'sticky' in that sometime it would turn easily and sometimes you'd have to jiggle it a bit to get the key to move into accessory and start positions. After reading a bunch of ' I used Wd40 and it fixed it / Dont use WD-40' discussions, I settled on a combination of compressed air directed right in the keyhole with a small straw, and then put some light-grade oil I put on both sides of my key and tried to turn it back and forth multiple times. Just enough oil to ALMOST drip off the key when holding it on its side. Its been a few days now and the problem has seemed to go away. Easy fix for me at least...
Administrator
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 53,979
Likes: 6,207
From: About 1100 miles from where I call home.
This is an old thread I know, but my switch was 'sticky' in that sometime it would turn easily and sometimes you'd have to jiggle it a bit to get the key to move into accessory and start positions. After reading a bunch of ' I used Wd40 and it fixed it / Dont use WD-40' discussions, I settled on a combination of compressed air directed right in the keyhole with a small straw, and then put some light-grade oil I put on both sides of my key and tried to turn it back and forth multiple times. Just enough oil to ALMOST drip off the key when holding it on its side. Its been a few days now and the problem has seemed to go away. Easy fix for me at least...
