Ignition key cylinder or switch?
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 13,002
Likes: 4
From: Paint Hill NC
Ignition key cylinder or switch?
My key is getting progressively harder to turn. It takes some jiggling and usually won't go all the way to "start". I'm pretty sure it's the cylinder not the switch but would like any input. Doesn't look to hard to replace on my 88. Anything to watch out for?
Thanks.
Harold
Thanks.
Harold
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 11,182
Likes: 2
From: Almost all Skyline Cruises Vettes at Waterside 1-5
Cruise-In I Veteran
Cruise-In II Veteran
Cruise-In III Veteran
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
Re: Ignition key cylinder or switch? (TPFKATK)
I'm having a similar problem. Key I have used for several years is giving me problems...Spare key works fine!
Sounds like worn key, right?
Two new keys from dealer don't work either, only my spare key
and it works smooth as silk
Jack
Sounds like worn key, right?
Two new keys from dealer don't work either, only my spare key
and it works smooth as silk
Jack
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 7,839
Likes: 22
From: San Diego, Ca
Re: Ignition key cylinder or switch? (TPFKATK)
Have you replaced the steering wheel? One of my all time bonehead moves was leaving the key in the ignition while torqueing down a new wheel. Crushed the cylinder really good (and I didn't know it until I started the motor and couldn't turn it off!) If you are replacing the cylinder, you will need new keys to match the pellet so be sure to get them - they don't come with the cylinder. Not hard to replace, more parts to remove than anything and the service manual has a good outline. Just be careful not to nick any of the wires. Before you start though, I'd make sure that the rod between the cylinder and that the ignition switch isn't binding. To do so, drop the column and remove the switch. If the rod moves freely with the key, something is causing the rod to bind, maybe the switch. You should be able to manipulate the switch by hand. There should be some resistance, but not a lot, and you can use electric cleaner followed with dielectric grease to free it up.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 3,388
Likes: 1
From: X
Re: Ignition key cylinder or switch? (TPFKATK)
Do you have any play in the steering column? If you do there are three bolts inside the column that come loose on GM cars. It could also be the bearings inside the column. If there is any play, the cylinder doesn't line up correctly with the locking device. I just had my column done at http://columnsgalore.com/ Sent it out Monday night at 5 oclock, am getting it back tomorrow afternoon.
