C-1 ignition won't go to start

[William B.]

I probably need a locksmith but I will ask anyway. I bought a '60 about 9 months ago that ran flawlessly until yesterday. It probably still runs flawlessly but won't start. Yesterday after some running around I left the car in the driveway. Later when I went to put it in the garage, the ignition key would not go to the "start" position. The gauges came to life but the key stopped at the "on" position. I never had anything like this happen, not even in older GM cars with the similar ignition that I had as a kid. The good news is that it happened right outside the garage and all I had to do was push the Vette into the garage. I know absolutely nothing about locks. Since the key will turn the ignition at least part way and the key still works all the other locks, does this sound like a tumbler problem in the ignition. Am I on the right track in seeking locksmith help? Thanks for any thoughts.

[Mike M.]

Re: C-1 ignition won't go to start

insert key back into the switch, turn to off position , then insert a very small pin or a small cotter key into the small hole in the ingnition switch bezel, then turn the cylinder, with the key and with the cotter derpressed(its against spring pressure)in a counterclockwise direction and then pull the cylinder out of the ingition switch. would also remove the ingition switch which can be disassembled , cleaned and lubricated with silicone paste. usually its just dirt or crud . if its the key cylinder, you'll probably need a locksmith. much cheaper to remove the cylinder and take it to locksmith than have the old boy stop by to work on your vet. good luck, mike

[Kevin Whiteley]

Re: C-1 ignition won't go to start

Will this work on 68's?

[Dave Suesz]

If you have the little hole, yes. *NM*

[Doug Flaten]

Re: C-1 ignition won't go to start

You can do as Mike suggests and remove the lock cylinder. Then use a screw driver to engage the switch turn the switch over to start and see if the switch is binding for some reason. No need to fear electrocution, since everything is mechanical on the cylinder side of the lock.

I would also check to make sure that the switch is indexed properly and the lock nut bezel is holding the whole assembly tight. Mine has a habit of getting loose. If it gets too loose, and gets out of the index, it may take more rotation than normal to turn the ignition starter on.

[William B.]

Re: C-1 ignition won't go to start

Thanks to all for input. Looks like the switch.