'73 Coupe Ignition Switch Problem

[Jerry Britsch]

I recently purchased this '73 Coupe which has a defective (broken?)ignition switch. The switch stays in the run position and will not rotate all the way to the lock position even when I shift the manual transmission to reverse. No key is necessary to start the engine.

How difficult a fix is this? Thanks for any help.

[David Dezinski (16980)]

Re: '73 Coupe Ignition Switch Problem

Jerry,

Open the hood, look in the engine compartment. Make sure the interlock lever on the right side of the steering column, where it comes through the firewall is UP as far as it can go, then try the ignition switch. Sometimes they hang up a bit and get out of adjustment, from worn or bent linkage.
Hope this helps. Dave

[Joe Lucia (12484)]

Re: '73 Coupe Ignition Switch Problem

Jerry----

The fix that Dave described may solve your problem. The interlock mechanism can be problematic, especially if it's been damaged over the years or never lubricated.

If it doesn't fix the problem, then the lock cylinder is likely the problem. In a 69 to 82 Corvette the ignition switch and the lock cylinder are completely seperate parts. The ignition switch is mounted on the lower portion of the steering column and the lock cylinder is in the familiar location. They are connected by an internal rod.

To remove the lock cylinder you will need to remove the steering wheel and the steering wheel hub with a steering wheel puller. Removal and replacement of the lock cylinder is covered in your Chevrolet Chassis Service Manual.