SpE3dF0x

I have to remove my old key Ignition and install a new one but how do you do it? I know lock smiths do it, I'd rather just do it myself. Is there a thread already on this topic or perhaps internet can show me how? Any thoughts????

Jim Shea

First of all, what year Corvette and what type steering column (standard non-adjustable or T&T)?

On all Corvettes (1969 thru 1982) the ignition lock cylinder is installed in the steering column head. The ignition switch is down under the dash; mounted on top of the steering column jacket.

I assume that you want to replace your ignition lock cylinder. You will need to pull your steering wheel, steering wheel hub, and locking plate. Then you will need to remove three screws so that you can pull your turn signal switch up and partially out of the column housing.
Now if you have a 1969 thru early 1979 column you will then be able to reach through a slot in the housing and depress a locking tab. The lock cylinder should come right out.
If you have a later 1979 thru 1982 column, you will find a bolt head at about the 2 o'clock position in the housing. Remove the bolt and the lock cylinder should come right out.


More complete instructions can be found at www.corvettefaq.com
Look under Jim Shea's Steering Papers
Click on Corvette Steering Papers
Scroll down to the Standard or down to the 69-82 Tilt & Telescoping sections.
Download the Disassembly & Repair Paper #1 and Disassembly & Repair Pic #1 in the appropriate section.

Jim

corvaro

I would like to bring this thread back to life with a followup question - has anyone seen a howto video on this or a similiar era GM?

There are loads of written instructions online, which are a good start, but for someone who has never done this (me) a video sure would help, alot!

Mine is a 76 and its frozen in the running position.

corvaro

After I wrote that question, I found this link:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...ition-fix.html ; right in stickys!

This may help others, since google hits this thread ALOT (check views).

I don't know if this will fix me or not, but I will definately have a look!

corvaro

So the cable was a problem, I detached it at both ends. It didnt solve my problem which I see as a corroded and beat up cylinder. I did add a new problem, as I bent the trans linkage cable while working on this one, so I will need to reshape or replace it.

Tore down the steering wheel following a great procedure found here:

http://www.corvette-guru.com/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=9811

Not sure about the last step - removing the old cylinder. Does anyone have pics of how to angle the tools you need to release the lock on 68-78 ?

corvaro

Problem solved with a long screwdriver, the tab just gets pushed in, it doesn't slide despite what the pictures show... now if I can only find the replacement cylinder I bought. Does anyone know where in my garage I left it?

simpson32

Lost the keys to an 80. Bought the cylinder to replace it. Come to find out it has a 78 column. This thread helped me figure it out after many hours of research trying to figure out how to remove the he old and just to be disappointed the new one doesn't work.
I'm sure when I have the new cylinder in, I will find the the old set of keys.

7T1vette

No...I don't know where in the garage you left it. I only know that immediately AFTER you buy another one, Loki will allow you to find the one you originally bought for this project. Then, you will have a spare!!!

[But, if you should need another one in the future, Loki with make sure to hide that spare one!] { I hate that little ba$+ard... }

7t9l82

look in the top of your toolbox.

Panama 58

Jim, I have sent you an email requesting information pertaining to the replacement of a ignition cylinder in my '72. Please look for it. Thanks.

ray buis

ignition switch on C4