Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

[Charles P.]

I searched the archives on this and found mostly tilt columns discussed. This might best be answered by Jim Shea based on what was in the archives. Unfortunately I could not open his key buzzer troubleshoot link in my computer (maybe because it was windows 97?).
My key buzzer likes to do its thing without the keys in the ignition. This was an intermittant problem that would go away if you jiggled the key/housing. It is now constant any time the door is open with or without the keys in the ignition. What is the most likely problem and if it is the switch what was the part number for the switch in a non tilt/non tele 73 column? Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

I searched the archives on this and found mostly tilt columns discussed. This might best be answered by Jim Shea based on what was in the archives. Unfortunately I could not open his key buzzer troubleshoot link in my computer (maybe because it was windows 97?).
My key buzzer likes to do its thing without the keys in the ignition. This was an intermittant problem that would go away if you jiggled the key/housing. It is now constant any time the door is open with or without the keys in the ignition. What is the most likely problem and if it is the switch what was the part number for the switch in a non tilt/non tele 73 column? Thanks.

Charles----


I think the switch could very well be the source of your problems. Among other things, the switch is rather a fragile piece. The switch is still available from GM under GM #7804414. About 19 bucks, GM list.

[Paul O.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

Charles try some electrical contact spray cleaner spray it into the key slot work the key in and out a few times then spray again and key again it may solve your problem at a low cost. It has worked for me a few times with cars that I worked on with a similar problem. Be careful with the cleaner it can some times remove lacquer paints. Paul

[Charles P.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

Thanks. Wouldn't it be nice if the contact cleaner worked! I will try it tomorrow. I have a can of blow-off that is great for contacts and leaves no residue. I will also check with my chevy dealer for the part before it is discontinued or....

[Robert B.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

I searched the archives on this and found mostly tilt columns discussed. This might best be answered by Jim Shea based on what was in the archives. Unfortunately I could not open his key buzzer troubleshoot link in my computer (maybe because it was windows 97?).
My key buzzer likes to do its thing without the keys in the ignition. This was an intermittant problem that would go away if you jiggled the key/housing. It is now constant any time the door is open with or without the keys in the ignition. What is the most likely problem and if it is the switch what was the part number for the switch in a non tilt/non tele 73 column? Thanks.

I just completed a rebuild of my t/t column using Jim's excellent papers. I downloaded the key buzzer diagnostic paper and have it in .doc format. It exceeds the attachment size limits for this forum but I could email it to you if you like.

You can buy a non t/t key buzzer warning switch from any number of vendors from $8.00-$12.00. The t/t switch is more difficult to find at this time.

[Gary S.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

Before I discovered Jim Shea's most excellent papers over at the Corvette Forum, I started digging into my steering column for a buzzer that would go off anytime a door was opened. Nothing I could I could squirt in there or nothing I could jiggle would affect it. You really need to get Jim's papers and start a diagnostic. Trust me, if I can tear into my steering column and make it work, anyone can. With Jim's help I actually dug all the way down into the ball joint at the base of the column. The tools necessary are very basic and relatively cheap.

[Charles P.]

Re: Key buzzer 73 non tilt buzzing sans key

Thanks, I am guessing switch now too, so a removal of the steering hub seems to be on the horizon. I will see about getting JS's paper.