When I insert the key into the ignition switch of my 1966 coupe and turn to the "on" or "accessory position" my key does not lock into place and can easily be pulled out of the switch. I undertstand the key should lock into place while in these positions. How do I correct this situation? Can my original switch be fixed or must I purchase a new switch? Thanks
ignition switch
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Re: ignition switch
Sounds like ignition switch was replaced somewhere along the line with a '64 and earlier version. These 'featured' the ability to use key to move out of lock position, remove key and operate without key in lock.
As far as having locksmith 'convert/repair', I'd first make sure the style agrees with description in JG -- no sense in tossing money into ignition lock that's incorrect style for your car but is correct for earlier Corvette as is....- Top
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Re: ignition switch
Sounds like ignition switch was replaced somewhere along the line with a '64 and earlier version. These 'featured' the ability to use key to move out of lock position, remove key and operate without key in lock.
As far as having locksmith 'convert/repair', I'd first make sure the style agrees with description in JG -- no sense in tossing money into ignition lock that's incorrect style for your car but is correct for earlier Corvette as is....- Top
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Re: ignition switch
John, Before ya go changing anything. Try a fresh new cut key. They wear out and sometimes come out when the shouldn't. The problem is cutting a key from the old one that has the wear pattern in it. Ya need to cut one from the knock out numbers.- Top
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Re: ignition switch
John, Before ya go changing anything. Try a fresh new cut key. They wear out and sometimes come out when the shouldn't. The problem is cutting a key from the old one that has the wear pattern in it. Ya need to cut one from the knock out numbers.- Top
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Re: ignition switch
[paste] When I insert the key into the ignition switch of my 1966 coupe and turn to the "on" or "accessory position" my key does not lock into place and can easily be pulled out of the switch. I undertstand the key should lock into place while in these positions. How do I correct this situation? Can my original switch be fixed or must I purchase a new switch? Thanks
Hi John - In your question I feel you are referring to the lock cylinder & key instead of the ignition switch.. Gene is on the right track. Looking at the face of the cylinder there should be a single hole to the right of the key (two holes are service replacements). Insert the key in the cylinder and turn it to the left toward the acc position. Then insert a small paper clip in the hole, press against the release pin while turning the key to the left. This should release the cylinder. It may take a couple attempts but it should work. Once removed there should be a 4 digit code stamped on the cylinder. Take it to your local locksmith and have a key cut or tumblers replaced to match the code if you like. The earlier lock clyinders are shouldered and may work in a '66 ignition switch as Jack mentioned, I'm not certain.
Hope this helps,- Top
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Re: ignition switch
[paste] When I insert the key into the ignition switch of my 1966 coupe and turn to the "on" or "accessory position" my key does not lock into place and can easily be pulled out of the switch. I undertstand the key should lock into place while in these positions. How do I correct this situation? Can my original switch be fixed or must I purchase a new switch? Thanks
Hi John - In your question I feel you are referring to the lock cylinder & key instead of the ignition switch.. Gene is on the right track. Looking at the face of the cylinder there should be a single hole to the right of the key (two holes are service replacements). Insert the key in the cylinder and turn it to the left toward the acc position. Then insert a small paper clip in the hole, press against the release pin while turning the key to the left. This should release the cylinder. It may take a couple attempts but it should work. Once removed there should be a 4 digit code stamped on the cylinder. Take it to your local locksmith and have a key cut or tumblers replaced to match the code if you like. The earlier lock clyinders are shouldered and may work in a '66 ignition switch as Jack mentioned, I'm not certain.
Hope this helps,- Top
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