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1984 corvette dash

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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 06:51 PM
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Default 1984 corvette dash

If i turn the key forward just barely before starting the dash comes on but when i start the car dash does not work my headlights work no radio checked all fuses i have haynes manual it doesnt have this trouble shooting problem need help thank you
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 06:59 PM
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Originally Posted by Mathew Malbone
If i turn the key forward just barely before starting the dash comes on but when i start the car dash does not work my headlights work no radio checked all fuses i have haynes manual it doesnt have this trouble shooting problem need help thank you
www.BATEE.com

If you go anywhere else that would be your first mistake.
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 07:36 PM
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You key cylinder is most likely fouled up.

Before you replace it, try to do some internal cleaning/lubing by putting a light (light) coat of WD40 on your key and going in/out then forward/back several times. You will have to put a few light coatings on your key.

If that does not work you will need to clean and/or replace your key cylinder.
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 07:45 PM
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I do not understand how to read electrical diagrams i am interested in buying a book but i cannot find one to teach me step by step (basics) i do not know where ground wires are located ive seen where people talk about there location but i cannot find it and ok hopefully wd40 works but will replacing/cleaning fix radio ?
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 08:07 PM
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Typically, WD40 is not recommended for lock cylinders, so I've no direct experience.

OP (original poster) might complete his profile!

This is a relatiely sophisticated car, to learn basic electronics from. You might consider building some teaching kits, where you learn about circuits, how to solder and inspect proper connections, how to use VOMs, etc.
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 08:42 PM
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Originally Posted by whalepirot
Typically, WD40 is not recommended for lock cylinders, so I've no direct experience.
Consider the following at 1:15:

The guy is a bit goofy but it will work.

I've been using it for years and have had no problem; the trick is gentle usage, coating the key and not flood the lock.
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Old Jul 24, 2017 | 08:51 PM
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Goofy would be offended at that comparison!

The best lock site I found recommends a dry lock lube which won't gum up with dirt over time.

This is probably an electrical contact issue anyway. Turning that key very slowly reveals multiple steps of items powering up.

You've used it so you know the result.
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Old Jul 25, 2017 | 09:10 AM
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Maybe I'm missing something here, but unless the ignition key cylinder is sticking, doesn't sound like your problem. The switch IIRC is at the bottom of the column, it's activated by a rod connected to the cylinder. If that rod is sticking or the switch is not positioned correctly then I'd suspect it could do what's been described.

Based on the minimum info here, to me it sounds (assuming the switch itself is good) something is likely misadjusted relating to the actual switch position or the rod.

My thoughts. Good luck.
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Old Jul 25, 2017 | 10:41 AM
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Originally Posted by Mathew Malbone
If i turn the key forward just barely before starting the dash comes on but when i start the car dash does not work
It just sounds dirty to me and a good cleaning of the contact area will make a difference

Last edited by billschroeder5842; Jul 25, 2017 at 10:41 AM.
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Old Jul 25, 2017 | 02:38 PM
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Originally Posted by hcbph
Maybe I'm missing something here, but unless the ignition key cylinder is sticking, doesn't sound like your problem.


Lubricating the key has nothing to do with the problem!!
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Old Jul 25, 2017 | 05:52 PM
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So i need to look under dash and look for a rod?
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Old Jul 25, 2017 | 05:53 PM
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I talked to guy at batee he said hes never expierenced this problem before
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Old Jul 26, 2017 | 06:10 PM
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Originally Posted by Mathew Malbone;159521983o3
I talked to guy at batee he said hes never expierenced this problem before
dash is tore apart found rod it seems to be moving as i turn key i found white box with three wires that plug into it
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Old Jul 26, 2017 | 11:10 PM
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Originally Posted by Mathew Malbone
dash is tore apart found rod it seems to be moving as i turn key i found white box with three wires that plug into it
I thought that rod was used for steering wheel lock. I dont think it's that the problem. I am not sure if mentioned it or not but what does it do when you turn key backwards into aux?
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